Polymeric package with resealable closure and valve and methods relating thereto

ABSTRACT

The present invention provides a vacuum storage bag system having a storage device having at least one polymeric sheet sealed along a portion of its&#39; periphery to provide an opening to a storage space; a resealable closure structure adapted to seal the opening to the storage space, the resealable closure structure comprising selectively engaging male and female profiles and a sealing compound comprising liquid silicone and at least one filler in proportions suitable for at least incidental contact to food items contained within the storage space; a vacuum valve assembly disposed on the polymeric sheet; a stand-off structure disposed adjacent to the vacuum valve assembly, wherein the stand-off structure has a series of raised surfaces facing the vacuum valve assembly; a portable vacuum pump assembly structured to engage the vacuum valve assembly; and a liquid separator assembly coupled to the portable vacuum pump assembly.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 11/627,893 and 11/627,909, both of which were filed Jan. 26, 2007, and each of which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/186,131, filed Jul. 20, 2005, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos., 60/590,858, filed on Jul. 23, 2004, 60/602,685 filed on Aug. 19, 2004, and 60/609,920, filed on Sep. 15, 2004. This application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/382,143, filed May 8, 2006, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos., 60/729,778, filed Oct. 24, 2005, 60/736,810 filed Nov. 14, 2005, and 60/763,063 filed Jan. 27, 2006. Each of the above patent applications is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a flexible, inexpensive, evacuable storage device optionally having a resealable opening and a caulking composition. The present invention also relates to a vacuum storage device and a system for vacuum storage.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Flexible, sealable storage devices, such as consumer storage bags are commonly used to store items such as, but not limited to, food. These devices typically have a bag body made from a thin, flexible plastic material and include a resealable closure. While inexpensive and easy to use, these devices also allow a quantity of air to be enclosed with the item being stored. Air within a storage device containing food is not desirable as the air reacts with the food and will cause spoliation. Additionally, when storage bags are placed in a below freezing environment, typically in a freezer, “freezer burn” may also damage the food items. Freezer burn occurs when moisture is drawn from the food item and forms ice, typically on the food item. Freezer burn is reduced when entrapped air is substantially eliminated from the storage device with concomitant contouring of the bag wall of the storage device around the food item. Consequently, less moisture will be drawn out of the food item.

Prior systems that evacuate flexible storage bags typically include a large device having a vacuum unit and a heat sealer structured to bond sheets of plastic together. The user typically cuts a length of plastic from a roll of plastic and uses the heat sealer to form the plastic into a bag with an opening. After an item has been placed in the bag through the opening, the vacuum unit is then used to remove substantially all of the air from the bag and the bag is sealed. Such systems have various disadvantages, including high materials costs due to once-use methodology and rigorous sealing requirements.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the foregoing background, there is need for a vacuum storage system utilizing a portable vacuum device and optionally a resealable, evacuable, flexible storage device. Resealable closure systems are known, for example, interlocking profiles used in plastic bags. However, in a typical resealable closure, engagement of the sealing structures is rarely perfect, leaving gaps in the profile seal. Moreover, during manufacture of reclosable devices, frequently seals at the ends of the reclosable device distort the engaging portions of the closure which can also provide an unsealed region in the closure. As a consequence of these and other problems associated with resealable closures, a bag utilizing a resealable closure may not be air tight. Consequently when a bag utilizing a resealable closure is subjected to a pressure differential, for example, when it is evacuated or when there is a partial pressure differential of a particular gas between the inside and outside of the bag, gas can leak across the resealable closure and enter, or leave the sealed package through the closure. Thus, gases, for example, air may penetrate into a sealed bag, or for example water vapor may leak from a sealed bag. This is especially a problem when the interior of the bag is at a different pressure than the ambient air, for example, when the bag is under a vacuum, or when the bag contains a gas at a higher or lower partial pressure than the gas is present in the ambient.

Accordingly, there is a need for a flexible, resealable storage device wherein the sealing structure has a resistance to fluid permeability under a pressure differential across the sealing device. Moreover, there is a need for a pre-made, inexpensive, flexible, reusable storage device having a valve structured to operate with a portable vacuum pump. Additionally, there is a further need for a resealable closure that provides for reduction in entrapped air, a flexible bag wall to maintain item conformance, and an air tight seal providing reduced permeability to oxygen, atmosphere intrusion or transmission, bacteria, molds and/or other sources of contamination when used in combination with vacuum pump technology. There is also a need for vacuum pump technology which provides for portability and utility in evacuating a food storage flexible package.

These needs, and others, are met by the present invention that provides in one aspect a vacuum system comprising: (a) a vacuum pump having a suction side; (b) a vacuum conduit in fluid communication with said vacuum pump suction side, the vacuum conduit comprising: (i) a gas/liquid separator means; (ii) at least one vacuum valve optionally comprising a caulking compound (also termed herein a caulking composition) disposed therein; (iii) optionally, a standoff structure; (iv) optionally one or more quick-connect means; (c) an evacuable package defining an interior space in fluid communication with said vacuum conduit; and (d) optionally, a resealable closure defining an opening of said evacuable package. In some preferred embodiments the vacuum pump is portable.

In one embodiment, the vacuum system comprises a kit containing in one assembly the vacuum pump, a liquid separator means and a portion of the vacuum conduit terminated with one portion of a quick-connect means, and in a second assembly, an additional portion of the vacuum conduit comprising a cooperating portion of the quick-connect means, a vacuum valve, an evacuable package and optionally a stand-off structure. In some preferred embodiments, the vacuum pump assembly is provided in a break-apart form wherein one portion of the system comprises the vacuum pump integrally assembled with some portions of the vacuum conduit, for example, the liquid/gas separator, terminating in a quick-connect means, and the remaining portions of the vacuum conduit are provided integral with the evacuable storage package, for example, a vacuum valve having a cooperating quick-connect means arranged in the remaining portion of the vacuum conduit and integral with the flexible package and optionally a stand-off structure.

In one embodiment the standoff structure comprises an embossed plastic sheet having a channel side and a projection side. In one embodiment the standoff structure is positioned within the evacuable package having the channel side in fluid communication with the vacuum conduit and vacuum valve, and having the projection side proximal to the interior space defined by the package.

In another aspect, the present invention provides an evacuable storage package defining an interior space, a vacuum valve in fluid communication therewith, optionally a standoff structure in fluid communication with the vacuum valve, and optionally a resealable closure defining an opening into the interior space of the package wherein the resealable closure comprises at least one set of interengaging profiles.

In some embodiments the resealable closure defining the opening of the inventive storage package comprises at least one pair of opposed interengaging profiles wherein at least one of said interengaging profiles has associated therewith a portion of the closure comprising a low density sealing material, thus providing a region in the closure having a high degree of conformance with the associated interengaging portion of the closure and as well as insuring that when the closure is end-sealed, a gap free seal is provided. In some embodiments the sealing material comprises a portion of one or both interengaging profiles. In some embodiments the sealing material comprises a portion of the flange or of a post of the closure. In some embodiments the sealing material comprises the entire length of the profiles. In some embodiments the sealing material comprises selected portions of the profiles, such as the periphery portions of one or both of the interengaging profiles. In some embodiments the portion of the closure comprising the sealing material is made from a polyolefin material having a density of not more than 0.925 g/cm³, as defined according to ASTM D1505-03, entitled “The standard test method for density of plastics by density gradient techniques”, Book of Standards Volume 08.01 (2005). In some embodiments the resealable closure is used in conjunction with a caulking composition. In one embodiment of the present invention, the caulking composition acts to fill one or more voids between the interengaging profiles, thus reducing the infiltration of ambient into the storage device when it is sealed and placed in a condition of reduced pressure.

In some embodiments the caulking composition is disposed proximal to the interengaging closure profiles such that it is infiltrated into any gaps existing in the closure when the closure profiles are engaged.

In some embodiments the caulking composition comprises a mixture suitable for at least incidental contact to food items. In some embodiments the caulking composition maintains chemical stability throughout a temperature range suitable for food storage and packaging.

In one embodiment the caulking composition is positioned on the first male profile and/or the first female profile. In one embodiment the caulking composition is placed proximal to the interengaging profiles of the closure in one or more positions that permit it to infiltrate gaps formed in the seal formed by the interengaged profiles, for example, as applied to the ends of the closure near the crush area, and as a continuous bead along the closure either on or between one or more of the interengaging profile portions.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the resealable closure device further comprises at least a second set of interengaging profiles positioned in close proximity and parallel to the first set of interengaging profiles. In one embodiment having multiple pairs of interengaging profiles, in addition to sealing material being positioned between each of the engaged portions of the interengaging profiles, a bead of caulking composition may be positioned within the space separating the substantially parallel sets of interengaging profiles.

In one embodiment, the caulking composition comprises constituents such that it maintains integrity, without decomposition, throughout a temperature range suitable for packaging and food storage. Temperatures suitable for packaging and food storage typically range from approximately −10° F. to approximately +160° F. In one embodiment the caulking composition comprises liquid silicone and a filler, e.g. fumed silica, in proportions to provide a grease with a grease consistency number of approximately 2.0, as characterized by National Lubricating Grease Institute (NGLI) standards. In one embodiment, the caulking composition comprises a soy adhesive, such as Pro-Cote® soy polymer available from DuPont™. In another embodiment, the caulking composition comprises soy oils, for example, those available from Cargill™. Industrial Oils & Lubricants. In one embodiment the caulking composition comprises two reactive constituents, each residing on a different portion of the closure, such that when the interengaging profiles of the closure are engaged the two constituents are admixed, providing a reaction product which infiltrates at least one void defined by the interengaging closure profiles.

In one aspect, a vacuum storage bag is provided, the vacuum storage bag including an evacuable package, a vacuum valve integral with the evacuable package, and a plurality of barriers positioned within the evacuable package. The evacuable package comprises at least one polymeric sheet sealed about a portion of its periphery defining first and second panels, an opening and an interior space. Each of the plurality of barriers interconnects a portion of the first panel of the evacuable package to a portion of the second panel of the evacuable package. The plurality of barriers also at least assist in defining at least one channel, which is in fluid communication with the vacuum valve and the interior space of the evacuable package.

The plurality of barriers may be of various configurations. For example, the plurality of barriers may be intermittently located about at least a portion of the periphery of the vacuum valve. In one approach, the vacuum valve is integral with the first panel and the plurality of barriers are intermittently located about at least a portion of the periphery of the vacuum valve. The plurality of barriers may be arranged such that the plurality of barriers define various portions of shapes, such as at least a portion of an ellipse. The plurality of barriers may be interconnected with the evacuable package in any suitable manner. For example, the plurality of barriers may be integral with both the first and second panels of the evacuable package, such as via heat sealing of the first panel to the second panel. Thus, in this embodiment, each of the plurality of barriers may define an uninterrupted span from the first panel to the second panel. In another embodiment, the plurality of barriers may comprise a polymeric material bonded to the interior space of the evacuable package.

In one approach, the plurality of barriers are located proximal at least a portion of the perimeter of the evacuable package. In a particular embodiment, a first portion of the plurality of barriers may be substantially parallel to a lateral side of the evacuable package. In turn, a second portion of the plurality of barriers may be substantially orthogonal to the same lateral side of the evacuable package. In one embodiment, the first portion of the barriers may be interconnected to the second portion of barriers, such as when it is desired to define a corner channel portion of the evacuable package.

In a particular embodiment, the plurality of barriers may define a sealing line, and the sealing line may be transverse to a lateral side of the evacuable package. In one embodiment, the sealing line is visible from the exterior of the evacuable package and facilitates visual confirmation of a fill level for the evacuable package. In a related embodiment, a visual indicator (e.g., color or text) may be co-located with the sealing line and this visual indicator may facilitate visual confirmation of a fill level for the vacuum storage.

The plurality of barriers may be utilized in conjunction with various other components of the vacuum storage bag. In one approach, the storage bag may include a standoff structure positioned within the evacuable package. In one embodiment, the stand-off structure may be located proximal the plurality of barriers. In a particular embodiment, at least some of the plurality of barriers may overlap with the stand-off structure. That is, the plurality of barriers and stand-off structure may be co-located at various portions of the evacuable package. In a particular approach, at least one channel fluidly interconnects the stand-off structure and the vacuum valve, such when the plurality of barriers and/or the geometrical structures of the stand-off structure define the channel.

In one approach, the evacuable package may include a resealable closure comprising at least one set of interengaging profiles that facilitate repeated opening and closing of the evacuable package. This resealable closure may define the opening of the evacuable package. In a particular embodiment, the plurality of barriers may be located between the resealable closure and the vacuum valve. In a related approach, the storage bag may include a grease composition associated with the resealable closure. This grease composition may be positioned on the resealable closure to facilitate sealing of the evacuable package.

In another aspect, the vacuum storage bag may include materials to facilitate wicking of liquids contained therein. In one approach, the vacuum storage bag includes a wicking material in fluid communication with the interior space of the evacuable package. In one embodiment, this wicking material may be interconnected to at least one of the first panel and second panel of the evacuable package. For example, the wicking material may be adhesively bonded to at least one of the first panel and second panel of the evacuable package. In another embodiment, to restrict movement of the wicking material within the evacuable package, a plurality of barriers, such as those described above, may be utilized. In one embodiment, the vacuum storage bag includes a plurality of barriers proximal the periphery of the wicking material and surrounding at least a portion of the wicking material. In this embodiment, the plurality of barriers may define a wicking section of the evacuable package and restrict movement of the wicking material from this wicking section. As described above, the plurality of barriers may at least assist in defining at least one channel, this at least one channel being adapted to facilitate liquid communication between the interior space of the evacuable package and the wicking material. The wicking material may be any suitable material adapted to adsorb or absorb liquids, such as desiccants, cellulose-based materials, and others.

As noted above, the resealable closure generally facilitates repeated opening and closing of the evacuable package. The resealable closure may also include structures to facilitate removal of air from the evacuable package. In one aspect, the resealable closure may include a first flexible flange interconnected to the first panel of the evacuable package, the first flexible flange including a first interengaging profile. The resealable closure may further include a second flexible flange interconnected to the second panel of the evacuable package and opposite the first flexible flange. The second flexible flange may include a top portion and a skirt portion, the skirt portion being interconnected to/integral with the top portion. The top portion of the second flexible flange may include a second interengaging profile adapted to restrictably engage the first interengaging profile. The skirt portion of the second flexible flange may include one or more structures for facilitating removal of gases from the evacuable package. In one embodiment, the skirt portion may include a stand-off structure (e.g., an embossed structure). Thus, gases proximal the resealable closure may be more readily removed from the evacuable package via the channels of the skirt portion stand-off structure.

In another embodiment, the skirt portion may include a vacuum valve interconnected therewith. In this regard, the vacuum valve may be integral with the skirt portion of the second flexible flange. To facilitate attachment of the vacuum valve, the skirt portion of the second flexible flange may include differing materials and/or thicknesses relative to the top portion of the second flexible flange. For example, the top portion of the second flexible flange may include low density polyethylene (LDPE) and the skirt portion may include medium density polyethylene (MDPE). In a related approach, the top portion of the second flexible flange may include a first thickness and the skirt portion may include a second thickness that is greater than the first thickness. In a particular embodiment, the top portion comprises a thickness of not greater than about 3 mil, and the skirt portion of the second flexible flange comprises a thickness of at least about 10 mils. In another related approach, the ratio of the thickness of the skirt portion to the thickness of the top portion may be tailored to facilitate interconnection of structures to the skirt portion of the second flexible flange while restricting the thickness of the top portion. For example, the ratio of the thickness of the skirt portion to the thickness of the top portion may be at least about 1.5:1.

The skirt portion may also include non-structured portions. For example, the skirt portion may include non-textural portions adjacent a lateral edge of the skirt portion. These non-textured portions may facilitate sealing of the evacuable package about the periphery.

Methods for forming resealable closures comprising structures are also provided. In one approach, the method includes the step of feeding at least a portion of the resealable closure through an anvil and an embossing wheel, and contacting at least some of the skirt portion of the resealable closure with an embossing portion of an embossing roll. The embossing roll may include structures that facilitate development of the stand-off structure (e.g., protrusions and/or cavities). The method may also include the step of contacting the skirt portion of the resealable closure with a non-embossed portion of the embossing roll to facilitate production of non-embossed portions of the skirt portion of the resealable closure.

In another aspect, a docking ring may be utilized to facilitate interconnection of the vacuum pump to the valve. In one approach, an evacuable package includes at least one polymeric sheet sealed along a portion of its periphery, thereby defining an evacuable package comprising an opening and an interior space. The evacuable package further includes a vacuum valve disposed on a first panel of the evacuable package, the vacuum valve being in fluid communication with the interior space and defining a sealable passage through which fluids may be drawn. The evacuable package also includes a docking ring coupled thereto. In a particular embodiment, the docking ring includes an outer surface, an inner surface, an upper surface and a lower surface. The lower surface of the docking ring is attached to the first panel of the evacuable package, and the inner surface of the docking ring circumscribes the vacuum valve, thereby defining a passageway communicable with the vacuum valve and an engagement end of a pump. In one embodiment, this passageway is aligned relative to the vacuum valve so as to align the engagement end of the pump with the vacuum valve when the engagement end of the vacuum valve is interconnected with the docking ring. In one embodiment, the docking ring includes a first complementary aligning feature for receiving a second complementary aligning feature of the pump. In this regard, the first complementary feature may restrict receipt of the engagement end of the pump into the receiving cavity unless the second complementary feature is aligned with the first complementary feature. In a particular embodiment, the first complementary aligning feature is one of a male member and a female member, and the second complementary feature is the other of the male member and the female member. In one embodiment, the first complementary feature is disposed on at least one of the outer surface and the upper surface of the docking ring.

In one approach, the docking ring may include one or more features adapted to restrictively engage one or more features of the pump so as to facilitate interconnection between the pump and the valve. In one embodiment, the docking ring includes at least one thread adapted to receive and restrictively engage an engagement feature of the pump. In a particular embodiment, the thread(s) is/are disposed on the inner surface of the docking ring. The thread(s) may also/alternatively be disposed on the outer surface of the docking ring. In one embodiment, the thread(s) include a downward taper, which may facilitate engagement of the pump and valve.

In one approach, additional features may be included proximal the docking ring and/or sidewall(s) of the bag to facilitate evacuation of the evacuable package. In one embodiment, at least one rib is attached to a first panel of the evacuable package, the rib(s) being disposed within the passageway of the docking ring and extending towards the upper surface of the docking ring. In one embodiment, the rib(s) is/are positioned with the passageway so as to physically engage a portion of the engagement end of the pump when the engagement end of the pump is interconnected with the docking ring. In turn, when the engagement end of the pump is in interconnected with the docking ring, a portion of the engagement end of the pump may physically engage the rib(s), and the rib(s) may be pushed toward a second panel of the evacuable package, thereby defining a space between the vacuum valve and the second panel of the evacuable package.

As may be appreciated, various aspects, approaches and/or embodiments noted hereinabove may be combined to yield various different configurations of the vacuum storage system and corresponding methods. These and other aspects, advantages, and novel features of the invention are set forth in part in the description that follows and will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the following description and figures, or may be learned by practicing the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 a is a front view of one of embodiment of a storage device.

FIG. 1 b is a side, cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a storage device.

FIGS. 2-7 and 33 a-33 b are cross-sectional views of embodiments of resealable closure devices including a caulking composition and/or sealing material.

FIG. 8 (perspective view) depicts one embodiment of a clamping means.

FIG. 9 is an exploded view of one embodiment of a vacuum valve assembly.

FIGS. 10 a-10 c are front views of embodiments of stand-off structures.

FIGS. 11 a-11 c are isometric views of embodiments of stand-off structures.

FIGS. 12 a-12 b are cross-sectional views of embodiments of stand-off structures.

FIGS. 13 a-13 d are isometric views of embodiments of a storage device in an unfolded condition.

FIG. 14 is an isometric view of one embodiment of a storage device in a folded condition.

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the storage device depicted in FIG. 14 along section line 9-9.

FIGS. 16 a-16 b illustrate the front view of one embodiment of a closing clip and the side view of the closing clip.

FIG. 17 is a side view of one embodiment of an end stop.

FIG. 18(a) is an isometric view of one embodiment of a suction cup tip of a portable vacuum pump

FIG. 18(b) depicts a side cross-sectional view of the suction cup tip depicted in FIG. 18(a).

FIG. 19 is an exploded, cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a liquid separator.

FIG. 20 is an exploded, isometric view of one embodiment of a liquid separator.

FIG. 21 is an isometric view of one embodiment of an evacuable bag in use, wherein the bag includes a stand-off structure and vacuum valve assembly.

FIGS. 22 a-22 d illustrate various embodiments of an evacuable package having a barrier structure.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of one embodiment of an evacuable package having a vacuum valve assembly interconnected with a resealable closure.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of an evacuable package having a resealable closure that includes a stand-off structure.

FIGS. 25 a-25 c illustrate various views of one embodiment of a resealable closure including a stand-off structure and an interconnected vacuum valve assembly.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a process for producing a resealable closure having a stand-off structure.

FIG. 27 a is a perspective view of one embodiment of a process for producing a resealable closure having a vacuum valve interconnected therewith.

FIG. 27 b is a perspective view of one embodiment of a process for producing a plurality of resealable closures, each having a vacuum valve interconnected therewith.

FIG. 28 illustrates one embodiment of an evacuable package including a wicking material.

FIG. 29 illustrates one embodiment of a docking ring-pump interconnection arrangement.

FIG. 30 is a perspective, partial cut-away view of the docking ring of FIG. 29.

FIG. 31 is a top view of the docking ring of FIG. 29.

FIG. 32 a is a cross-sectional, side view of one embodiment of a docking ring-pump interconnection arrangement.

FIG. 32 b is a cross-sectional, side view of one embodiment of a docking ring-pump interconnection arrangement.

FIG. 33 a is cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a male profile.

FIG. 33 b is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a male profile engaged with a female profile.

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a polymeric package.

FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view of the package of FIG. 34 taken along line 23-23.

FIG. 36 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a storage device.

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of the storage device of FIG. 36 illustrated with a food item contained therein.

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of the storage device of FIGS. 36 and 37 illustrating a method of closing the adhesive seal of the storage device.

FIG. 39 is a cross-sectional view of the storage device of FIG. 36 taken along line 27-27.

FIG. 40 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a storage device.

FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional view of the storage device of FIG. 40 taken along line 29-29.

FIG. 42 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a storage device in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional view of the storage device shown in FIG. 42 taken along line 31-31.

FIG. 44 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a storage device having a stand-up feature.

FIG. 45 is a cross-sectional, side view of the storage device of FIG. 44 with a pump interconnected therewith.

FIG. 46 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a storage device comprising gussets.

FIG. 47 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a storage device comprising a vacuum valve located external to the side panels of the storage device.

FIG. 48 is a close-up view of the extension portion of the storage bag of FIG. 47.

FIG. 49 a is a cross-section view of the FIG. 48 taken along line a.

FIG. 49 b is a cross-section view of the FIG. 48 taken along line b.

FIG. 49 c is a cross-section view of the FIG. 48 taken along line c.

FIG. 50 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a flexible extension portion of a storage device.

FIG. 51 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a storage device comprising a vacuum valve located external to the side panels of the storage device.

FIG. 52 is a cross-sectional view of an extension comprising a needle for insertion into a sidewall of a storage device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention is now discussed in more detail referring to the drawings that accompany the present application. In the accompanying drawings, like and/or corresponding elements are referred to by like reference numbers. In one embodiment of the present invention, a vacuum system is provided that may include a portable vacuum pump and an evacuable package in communication through a vacuum conduit. The evacuable package may optionally include a stand-off structure and a resealable closure having a caulking composition disposed thereon. In one embodiment, the resealable closure comprises interlocking profiles on which the caulking composition is disposed to provide a gas permeation resistant seal in the resealable closure. The vacuum conduit provides communication between the portable pump and the storage portion of the evacuable bag, wherein the vacuum conduit comprises at least a valve assembly and optionally a stand-off structure. In one embodiment, the stand-off structure provides a means to substantially eliminate the incidence of trapped air within the storage area of the evacuable package. Each of the aspects of the interlocking profiles, the caulking composition, the vacuum valve assembly, the stand-off structure, and the vacuum pump are now discussed in greater detail.

Referring to FIGS. 1 a-1 b, in one embodiment, the flexible, resealable storage device 10 comprises a flexible material 12 shaped as an evacuable package 14 (also referred to as evacuable bag). The flexible material 12 is preferably a plastic sheet 16, such as polyolefin. The sheet 16 is, preferably, rectangular. In one embodiment, the sheet 16 is folded over upon itself and two lateral sides 15 are sealed adjacent to the periphery to provide an opening 18 to a storage space 22. As such, the periphery of the bag 14 is substantially sealed. In another embodiment of the present invention, the entire periphery of the evacuable bag 14 is heat sealed.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the evacuable package 14 may be a multilayer bag comprising an inner sealant layer and a barrier/strength layer. The inner sealant layer may comprise LDPE (low density polyethylene) or LLDPE (linear low density polyethylene) and the barrier/strength layer may comprise Nylon, PP (polypropylene) or PET (Polyester). As used herein the term “low density” in conjunction with polyethylene denotes a material having a density of no greater than 0.925 g/cm³, as defined by ASTM standard D-15005-03, wherein the density may be adjusted with the addition of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA). Another example of a multilayer bag and a method of forming a multilayer bag is described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,267,960, titled “Bag For Vacuum Packaging of Meats or Similar Products”, filed Aug. 29, 1979, which is incorporated herein by reference.

In the embodiments of the present invention in which the evacuable bag 14 has an opening 18 to the storage space 22, the bag opening 18 includes a resealable closure 20. The resealable closure 20 may include a set of interlocking profiles. In one example, the set of interlocking profiles 21 may include resilient, selectively engaging male and female profiles 21 (tongue-and-groove closure), structured to seal the opening 18. It will be appreciated that there are numerous interlocking profile geometries known, which can be employed in the present invention.

With reference to FIG. 2, in one embodiment, the selectively engaging profiles of closure 21 (also termed herein sometimes for convenience as interengaging profiles) are positioned along two opposing flexible flanges (also termed herein sometimes for convenience as “panels”) including a first flange 50 and a second flange 52. As shown in FIG. 2, the two flanges 50, 52 may include a raised surface 68, 69 on the inside surface of the panels disposed outside the resealable closure. The first flange 50 includes a male profile having at least one protrusion 54 that extends laterally across the bag 14. The second flange 52 includes a female groove 60 defined by at least two protrusions (56, 58).

Still referring to FIG. 2, there may be multiple protrusions 62, 64, extending from the first and second flanges 50, 52 and forming multiple corresponding male profiles and female grooves (also termed herein sometimes for convenience as a female profile). The protrusions 54, 56, 58, 62, 64 are generally formed from a polyolefin material with a density of not less than approximately 0.925 g/cm³, preferably those described as a High Melt Index polyolefin (HMI). More specifically, the protrusions 54, 56, 58, 62, 64 may comprise High Melt Index (MI) Polyethylene materials and Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) Copolymers, particularly those having a vinyl acetate content of from about 4 weight percent to about 12 weight percent. In addition, portions of the interengaging profiles and/or surrounding closure structures may include one or more features comprising low melt index or Ultra Low Density (ULD) Polyolefins. As used herein, the term “Ultra Low Density” denotes a density no greater than approximately 0.925 g/cm³. As will be appreciated, the density may be adjusted with the addition of EVA. At least one protrusion 54, 56, 58, 62, 64 may include a bead 66 of polyolefin material with a density of not more than approximately 0.925 g/cm³. In some embodiments a bead 66 of softer material is disposed at the tip of a protrusion 54, 56, 58, 62, 64 and is structured to engage the opposing flanges 50, 52. The bead 66 of softer material is hereafter referred to as a bead of sealing material 66.

As discussed above, the bead of sealing material 66 may have a lower density than the protrusions 54, 56, 58, 62, 64. During the engagement of resealable closure 20, the lower density and hence more compliant bead of sealing material 66 conforms to the geometry of the higher density and more rigid material comprising the portion of the closure against which the head of the profile abuts upon engagement. The softer material abuts the closure with increased conformance to the abutting surface, advantageously providing a more effective seal against fluid exchange between the interior of the package and the ambient, for example, the intrusion of gas and the exterior atmosphere into the evacuable bag 14. Regardless of the above described embodiments, the resealable closure 20 and its associated interlocking structures can comprise resilient materials of varying densities and melt indexes. Accordingly, embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure, including combinations of materials selected to achieve sealant conditions under vacuum and reduced temperature conditions.

The protrusions forming the male profile may also be referred as a profile having a male head. The protrusions defining the female profile (also referred to as a groove) may also be referred to as profile having a female head and a fillet positioned to provide a groove. The resealable closure 20 may further include a closing clip structured to ensure the complete engagement of the closure profiles. Specifically, the closure clip functions to ensure that the interengaging profiles are engaged as the clip is disposed along a first direction, but does not affect the engagement of the profiles when disposed along the direction opposite to that of the first direction.

Regardless of the specific details of construction or interaction of the profiles 21 of resealable closure 20, the interengaging portions of the resealable closure of the present invention preferably includes a caulking composition 99 (also sometimes referred to as sealing compound 99). For example, the caulking composition 99 may be positioned on at least one protrusion 54 on the first flange 50 and/or at least one protrusion 56, 58 on the second flange 52 of the closure 21, wherein the caulking composition 99 assists in creating an air tight seal to the storage space 22. Specifically, during engagement of the first and second flange protrusions 54, 56, 58, 62, 64 of the male and female profiles, the caulking composition 99 sits within the groove 60 to ensure an air-tight seal of the male and female profile. Specifically, the caulking composition 99 is positioned to infiltrate the void space defined between the engaged interlocking profiles 21 of the resealable closure 20. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that that the caulking composition 99 acts to infiltrate gaps between the male and female profiles, thus reducing the infiltration of ambient into the storage device 10 when it is placed in a condition of reduced pressure.

Accordingly, the resealable closure 20 is prepared before sealing by introducing the caulking composition 99 onto one or more members of the interengaging profiles 21 or onto a surface of the resealable closure 20 proximal to the interengaging profiles 21, by methods such as deposition or injection, where it will be distributed during the interlocking process within incipient gaps left between the interengaging profiles 21 after interlocking. Alternately, prior to sealing the resealable closure 20, the caulking composition 99 can be placed proximal to known areas in which the sealing profile is prone to exhibit gapping, for example, the ends of the male and female profiles 21 at the bag's periphery. The portions of the male and female profiles at the bags periphery are engaged by crush seal, which is often the site of leakage in the closure device. The voids caused by the crush seal engagement at the male and female profile may be filled with the sealing compound 99 to substantially reduce the incidence of leakage.

The caulking composition 99 may comprise any material that provides a selectively reversible air tight seal between the interlocking profiles 21 of the resealable closure 20, in which the caulking composition 99 is suitable for at least incidental contact to food items inserted through the opening to the storage space. Preferably, the caulking composition 99 maintains its chemical structure throughout the operable temperature range of storage device 10. The term “suitable” for at least incidental contact denotes compounds that are eligible for compliance with or equivalent to being in compliance with the Federal Food Drug and Cosmetic Act (Title 21 of the Code of Federal Regulations) standards for being generally recognized as safe (GRAS). The term “at least incidental contact” includes at least the unanticipated contact of food items being passed through the opening on which the closure strip is positioned as the food items are being inserted into the storage space. Although indirect contact between the caulking composition and the food items is preferred, in some embodiments the caulking composition may more directly contact the food, so long as the interaction between the food items and the caulking composition is in accordance with the regulations of the Federal Food Drug and Cosmetic Act.

It is noted that caulking compositions that are suitable for at least incidental food contact may be consistent with the classification of materials for “lubricants with incidental food contact” according to Title 21 of the United States Code of Federal Regulations § 178.3570 (revised as of Apr. 1, 2003), so long as the materials are consistent with the Federal Food Drug and Cosmetic Act and have an operable temperature range suitable for food storage and packaging. In some preferred embodiments, the operable temperature range of the storage device is defined as the temperature range that the storage bag is typically subjected to in shipping, packaging and food storage applications, for example, food storage applications ranging from approximately −10° F. to approximately 160° F. One example of a caulking composition that is listed as a “lubricant with incidental food contact” according to Title 21 Of the United States Code of Federal Regulations § 178.3570 and has an operable temperature range suitable for food storage and packaging comprises dimethylpolysiloxane. Another example is soy-based oils, for example, those distributed by Cargill Corp., and soy-based adhesives, for example, those distributed by DuPont as Pro-Cote™ soy polymers.

In order to provide an air tight seal, in some embodiments the caulking composition 99 should be selected to have a work penetration of about 290 to about 340, in which the work penetration is measured at 60 strokes and a temperature of 77° F. in accordance with the National Lubricating Grease Institute (NLGI) system for rating greases by penetration and ASTM D217-97 titled “Standard Test Methods for Cone Penetration of Lubricating Grease” (1997). The NLGI classifies greases by consistency numbers as measured by worked penetration. In a preferred embodiment, the caulking composition 99 has a work penetration on the order of about 290 to about 340 and is classified as a grease having a NLGI consistency number equal to approximately 2. Although it is preferred that the caulking composition 99 have NLGI consistency number equal to approximately 2, greases having lower or higher NLGI consistency numbers may alternatively be utilized, so long as the caulking composition 99 may be applied to the interengaging profiles 21 of the resealable closure 20 using conventional injection methods and that the caulking composition 99 is contained within the resealable closure 20 when exposed to temperatures consistent with food storage container applications.

One example of a caulking composition 99, which meets the above requirements is silicone grease. Silicone grease is an amorphous, fumed silica thickened, polysiloxane-based compound. Silicone grease is formed by combining liquid silicone with an inert silica filler. One example of liquid silicone that may be utilized in forming silicone grease having suitable work penetration properties is polydimethylsiloxane having a specific gravity on the order of about 0.973 and a viscosity greater than about 300 centistokes, preferably on the order of about 350 centistokes. Fumed silica, an inert silica filler, has a chain-like particle morphology and when incorporated into liquid silicone forms three dimensional networks that trap the liquid and effectively increases the liquid's viscosity.

Silicone grease may provide desired work penetration values and temperature range to produce an adequately air tight seal between the interengaged profiles 21 of the resealable closure 20 by selecting the proper proportions of inert silica filler to liquid silicone. The proportion of inert silica filler to liquid silicone is generally selected to ensure that separation of liquid from solid in the silicone grease is substantially eliminated throughout the operable temperature range of the bag as applied to food container storage. In general, proportions of inert silica filler to liquid silicone are selected to yield a silicone grease viscosity that would not inhibit the application of the silicone grease onto the resealable closure 20. The proportion of inert silica filler to liquid silicone is preferably less than approximately 30% by weight. Even more preferably, the proportion of inert silica filler to liquid silicone is on the order of 6% by weight.

In one highly preferred embodiment, the silicone grease is provided by Clearco™ Silicone Grease (food grade) provided by Clearco Products Co., Inc., Bensalem Pa. Clearco™ Silicone Grease (food grade) has a work penetration value of about 290 to about 340, in which the work penetration is measured at 60 strokes and a temperature of 77° F. Clearco™ Silicone Grease (food grade) comprises 94% dimethylpolysiloxane and 6% fumed silica by weight % and has a specific gravity on the order of about 1.1. Clearco™ Silicone Grease may be utilized at temperatures ranging from approximately −40° F. to approximately 400° F. without chemical decomposition and is therefore well suited for food storage applications. In this embodiment of the present invention, the silicone grease 99 may be positioned along at least one of the male and female profiles 21 of the resealable closure 20, wherein incidental contact to food being inserted into the storage space of the storage device typically accounts for less that 5.0 ppb of silicone grease being incorporated into the food item being stored. In one embodiment, at least about 0.01 grams of caulking composition per linear foot of resealable closure is utilized, such as at least about 0.03 grams of caulking composition per linear foot of the resealable closure. Generally, not greater than about 0.07 grams of caulking composition is used per linear foot of the resealable closure.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the caulking composition 99 may comprise a soy adhesive. Similar to the above-described caulking compositions, the soy adhesive preferably is suitable for incidental food contact and has an operable temperature range suitable for food packaging and storage. One example of a soy adhesive is Pro-Cote® soy polymer, which is available from DuPont™. In general, soy adhesive is prepared by extracting and refining soy oil from dehulled, flaked soybeans. The extracted material contains isolated soy protein in its native or globular form; and soluble, low molecular weight sugars. The extract is then processed in a controlled pH environment at tightly controlled temperatures to uncoil globular native soy protein into smaller units, and fractionating the material into uniform polymer fractions. The isolated protein molecule fractions are highly reactive and are chemically treated to modify the protein chain to provide desired adhesive properties. Unmodified soy-based oils may also be employed as a caulking composition. An alternative source of soy based oils and adhesives is the soy products available from Cargill™ Industrial Oils & Lubricants.

As will be appreciated, numerous reactive materials may also be employed as caulking compositions. In particular, materials which may be coated as separate reactants onto separate interengaging portions of the closure which are admixed upon engagement of the interengaging portions of the closure may be utilized. Accordingly, when the closure parts are engaged the admixed reactants will be combined, reacting and forming in-situ a caulking composition which is infiltrated into a least one void defined by the engaged interengaging portions of the closure. One example of such a system comprises a free-flowing reactive polymer liquid and a liquid cross-linking agent, each coated on separate portions of the closure. In this example, when the closure is engaged, the separate portions contact, admixing the polymer and cross-linking agent, providing a viscous, cross-linked polymer caulking composition which is infiltrated into voids in the closure defined by the interengaged portions of the closure. Other examples include the provision of a free-flowing liquid and a gelling agent on separate portions of the closure to form a viscous caulking agent upon admixture, and the provision of a two-part adhesive material which react to form an adhesive upon admixture, for example, formation of a pressure-sensitive adhesive. Other types of chemical transformations will also be apparent to those of skill in the art.

Referring now to FIG. 3, in another embodiment of the present invention, the resealable closure structure includes at least two sets of opposed interlocking profiles 150 respectively having interengaging profiles 24, 28 and 23, 26 selectively engaged in sealing the opening 18 to the storage space 22. Each pair of interengaging profiles comprise a geometry having an asymmetrical head 32, 36 extending from a stem 43. Each asymmetrical head is preferably offset on the stem to complimentarily fit into the void space defined by stem 43, post 38 and asymmetrical head 36. The term “asymmetrical head” denotes that the centerline of the head portion of the profile is substantially offset from the centerline of the stem portion of the profile to which it is affixed.

The void space defined by stem 43, post 38 and asymmetrical head 36 comprises a groove configured to selectively engage the asymmetrical head 32 of the corresponding interengaging profile 23, 24. Stem 43, post 38 and asymmetrical head 36 are spaced to selectively engage corresponding interengaging profiles 23, 24. The spacing between the post 38 and stem 43, and between post 38 and asymmetrical head 36 is sufficiently narrow to bias asymmetrical head 32 toward asymmetrical head 36 when profiles 23, 24, 26, and 28 are engaged. The biased positioning of the asymmetrical head 36 in combination with the spacing of post 38 to correspond to the width of asymmetrical heads 23, 24 defining a grove that reversibly interlocks asymmetrical head 23, 24 into the groove when the profiles are engaged.

Still referring to FIG. 3, the resealable closure further includes a caulking composition 99 positioned on at least one of asymmetrical heads 23, 24, 26, and/or 28. The caulking composition 99 may be deposited or injected onto the profiles 23, 24, 26, and/or 28 insuring that an air tight seal is obtained when the profiles 23, 24, 26, 28 are interengaged under varying temperature and pressure conditions. The caulking composition 99 may be positioned along the entire length of the opposed interlocking profiles 150 or only a portion of the opposed interlocking profiles 150, such as the end portions of the opposed interlocking profiles 150 at the bag's periphery.

In another embodiment, shown in FIG. 4 (without showing certain reference numbers for clarity), the resealable closure 20 includes a bead of caulking composition 100 in the gap between two parallel sets of opposed interlocking profiles 150. In application, as each set of opposed interlocking profiles 150 are interengaged, the bead of caulking composition 100 contacts the ends of each set of opposed interlocking profiles 150. In a preferred embodiment, the bead of caulking composition 100 fills the void separating the parallel sets of opposed interlocking profiles 150 and contacts the female profiles grooves 26, 28 in each set of opposed interlocking profiles 150, thereby creating a seal. In a further embodiment of the present invention, the resealable closure structure 20 includes a bead of caulking composition 100 in the gap between two parallel sets of opposed interlocking profiles 150 and additional caulking composition 99 between at least one set of interengaging profiles (23, 26) and (24, 28).

In another embodiment, shown in FIG. 5 (without showing certain reference numbers for clarity), the resealable closure 20 includes a bead of sealant material 45 in the gap between two parallel sets of opposed interlocking profiles 150. The sealant material 45 is a composition of high EVA & high MI polymers selected to provide a high-conformance region in the closure, as described above. Additionally, a bead of sealant material 53, 55 may be applied to the distal tip of each male profile 23, 24. In general, suitable sealant material comprises compositions of polymers as described above or alternatively ultra-low density (ULD) polymers (as defined above) with EVA additives at a 2% or higher loading. Beads of sealant material 45, 53, 55 ensure that an air-tight barrier exists between substantially the entire length of interengaging profiles (23, 26) and (24, 28) when the resealable closure structure 20 is engaged. A bead of sealing material 45 may also be positioned on both sides of a single set of opposed interlocking profiles 150, as depicted in FIG. 6. Similar to the above described embodiments, a bead of caulking composition may be employed between parallel sets of opposed interlocking profiles and/or the caulking composition may be employed between at least one set of interengaging profiles (23, 26) and/or (24, 28).

Referring now to FIG. 7, in yet another embodiment of the present invention, the resealable closure 20 may be provided by resealable closure strips having independent and substantially symmetric profiles 160, 162, 164, 166, unlike the embodiments above utilizing asymmetrical structures. Accordingly, the heads (described below) are not offset relative to the stems. That is, each symmetric element 160, 162, 164, 166 includes a head 170 and a stem 172. The head 170 is disposed generally symmetrically on the stem 172. The symmetric profiles 160, 162, 164, 166 are disposed with two elements of each panel flange 112, 114 and are spaced and configured so that the gap between adjacent elements defines a void region which has a shape corresponding to the shape of the symmetric profiles 160, 162, 164, 166. This embodiment further includes outer elements 180, 182. The outer elements 180, 182 are offset toward the symmetric profiles 160, 162, 164, 166 and bias the symmetric profiles 160, 162, 164, 166 into each other. The outer elements 180, 182 are sized and shaped to correspond to the outer most two symmetric profiles 160, 166. Similar to the above described embodiments, a bead of caulking composition may be employed between one or more of the symmetric profiles 160, 162, 164, 166. Additionally or alternatively the profiles may incorporate a region of sealing material, as described above, for example, by co-extrusion of the sealing material with the base material comprising the profile. Resealable closures 20, interengaging profiles 21, and profile members are well known, and a variety of configurations are useable in accordance with the principles of this disclosures; see, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,524,002; 6,152,600; 5,839,831; and 5,252,281, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Additionally, although not depicted in FIG. 7, multiple sets of opposing interlocking profiles may be employed incorporating independent and substantially symmetric profiles, wherein a bead of caulking composition may be position between two sets of opposing interlocking profiles. The bead of caulking composition may be employed separately or in conjunction with caulking composition disposed between each of the symmetric profiles. It is noted that the present invention is not limited to profile geometries disclosed above, as any profile geometry may be utilized and is within the scope of the present disclosure, so long as the geometry of the profiles is compatible with the caulking composition in a manner that provides an air-tight seal.

In another embodiment, at least one of the interlocking profiles may comprise a male profile containing the caulking composition 99 disposed on surfaces thereof. In this regard, when the male profile is engaged with the female profile, the caulking composition 99 may be at least partially displaced from the male profile and at least partially into the incident gaps between the male profile and female profile, thereby sealing such gaps. For example, and with reference to FIGS. 33 a and 33 b, a male profile 124 may be interconnected with the second flange 52 and include caulking composition 99 disposed between two arms 101 thereof. As the male profile 124 and female profile 123 are engaged, arms 101 and fingers 102 of the male profile 124 are pressed toward one another, thereby displacing the caulking composition 99 contained therebetween. More particularly, the arms 103 of the female profile 123 engage the fingers 102 of the male profile 124, thereby depressing the arms 101 towards one another as the female profile 123 and male profile 124 engage. In turn, the caulking composition 99 between the arms 101 of the male profile 124 is displaced from the male profile 124 and into gaps between the male profile 124 and female profile 123. The amount of caulking composition 99 included with the male profile 124 should be of sufficient volume so that when the female profile 123 and male profile 124 are engaged, as illustrated in FIG. 33 b, the caulking composition 99 is at least partially displaced from its location between the two arms 101 of the male profile 124, and into filling incident gaps between the male profile 124 and female profile 123.

Referring to FIG. 8, in one embodiment of the present invention, the resealable closure 20 comprises a opening and a clamping means. The clamping means may comprise a clip 175 that is separate from the evacuable bag 14, in which the clip 175 seals the opening 18 of the bag 14 in clamp seal engagement. In another embodiment the clamping means may further include a mandrel 171, wherein the opening 18 of the evacuable bag 14 is rolled around the mandrel 171 and the clip 170 compresses the portion of the evacuable bag 14 rolled about the mandrel in clamp seal engagement.

Referring back to FIG. 1 a, the storage device 10 further includes a vacuum conduit having one end in fluid communication with the interior of the storage space 22 and which includes a vacuum valve assembly 30. The vacuum valve assembly 30 is in fluid communication with the storage space 22 and defines a sealable passage through which liquids and/or gases may be drawn. The vacuum valve 30 is often a one-way evacuation valve, allowing fluid flow therethrough in only one-direction; generally, the direction is from storage space 22 of evacuable package 14 to the exterior of evacuable package 14.

Referring to FIG. 9, in one embodiment the vacuum valve assembly 30 includes a base 31 having a flat surface 33 with at least one opening 37 there through, a resilient valve element 35, and an alignment device 39. The base 31 is sealingly engaged to the evacuable bag 14. The valve element 35 is generally flat and disposed adjacent to the flat surface 33. The alignment device 39 is coupled to the base 31 and is structured to bias the valve element 35 against the flat surface 33. The valve element 35 is structured to move between a first position, wherein the opening 37 is open, and a second position, wherein the opening 37 is sealed. The valve element 35 is normally biased to the second position. The base 31 has a defined shape, such as, but not limited to a concave disk. The outer surface 41 of the base 31 is a generally flat torus.

The vacuum valve 30 can be any suitable valve, including those known as “Goglio” type or “Raackmann” type. Goglio-type valves are available, for example, from Bosch, Wipf, and Wico; Raackmann-type valves are available, for example, from Amcor. Other examples of suitable vacuum valves 30 include those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,913,803; 6,733,803; 6,607,764; and 6,539,691, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In one embodiment of the present invention, the vacuum valve assembly may be consistent with any of the valves disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/100,301, entitled “EVACUATABLE CONTAINER”, filed Apr. 6, 2005, or U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/238,566, entitled “FOOD BAG RELEASE VALVE”, or U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/100,014, entitled “EVACUATABLE CONTAINER”. It is noted that the sealing nature of the valve element 35 may be enhanced by incorporating a sealing material and/or a caulking composition into the sealing members of the valve assembly. In another embodiment, the vacuum valve assembly 30 may further include at least one rib (not depicted) extending from the interior side of the valve assembly base 31, wherein the rib extending from the base 31 ensures that the valve assembly is not obstructed during application of the vacuum.

As shown in FIGS. 1 a-1 b, 10 a-10 c, 11 a-11 d, and 15, the storage device 10 further includes a stand-off structure 70. The stand-off structure 70 provides a communicating passage for the removal of liquids and gases. This is, preferably, a strip 71 of film having a pattern of channels 72 embossed, or cut, therein. The stand-off structure channels 72 are designed not to collapse even when the bag 14 is placed under a vacuum. The channels 72 may be in any shape, such as, but not limited to a honeycomb pattern (FIG. 10 a), a grid or partial grid (FIG. 10 b), a series of parallel grooves (FIG. 10 c) or a series of triangular columns (FIG. 11 c). Referring to FIG. 15, the cavity face 85 of the stand-off structure 70 faces the vacuum valve assembly 30 and the protrusion face 86 of the stand-off structure 70 faces the storage space 22.

The honeycomb pattern of channels is depicted in isometric view in FIG. 11 a, in which the channels 72 that provide the communicating passage for the removal of liquids and gases is defined by a series of polyhedron structures 110. Referring now to FIG. 11 b, in another embodiment of the stand-off structure 70, the pattern of channels 72 for the removal of liquids and gasses may be provided by a series of curvilinear columns 120.

Regardless of the geometry selected for providing the channels, the stand-off structure 70 produces a passage for the removal of liquids and gases by providing a cross-section with a series of raised surfaces and recessed surfaces. In one embodiment, the standoff structure is integral with a fluid conduit providing fluid communication between the interior of the storage device and a vacuum system by which the storage device is evacuated, and which comprises a vacuum valve, the standoff structure, optionally a quick-connect device, optionally a liquid/vapor separator and the suction side of a vacuum pump. Referring to FIG. 12 a, channels 72 are provided in the area defined between the raised surfaces 74 and recessed surfaces 75 of the stand-off structure's 70 cross-section. The stand-off structure 70 may have a series of channels 72 on one side of the standoff structure 70, as depicted in FIG. 12 a, or on both sides of the stand-off structure 70, as depicted in FIG. 12 b. Referring to FIG. 11 c, in one embodiment of the present invention, the cavity face 85 of the stand-off structure 70 comprises channels 72 and the protrusion face 86 comprises a series of communicating passages produced by a plurality of polyhedron structures.

As shown in FIGS. 13 a-13 d, 14 and 15, the stand-off structure 70 may be bonded to the inner side of the bag 14, on the same side of the evacuable bag 14 as the vacuum valve assembly 30. Although thermal bonding of the stand-off structure 70 to the side of the evacuable bag 14 is preferred, any conventional bonding method may be utilized as known by those skilled in the art. The stand-off structure 70 is positioned at a location corresponding to the location of the vacuum valve assembly 30. Multiple valve assemblies 30 and multiple stand-off structures 70 may be utilized in a single storage device 10, as depicted in FIG. 13 d.

As shown in FIG. 13 a, the coupling of the stand-off structure 70 may be accomplished prior to folding over the plastic sheet 16, wherein the entire side periphery 73 of the stand-off structure is bound to the plastic sheet 16. Referring to FIG. 13 b, in another embodiment, the coupling of the stand-off structure 70 to the storage device 10 may be accomplished by bonding only selected portions of the stand-off's side periphery 73 to the plastic sheet 16. Additionally, as opposed to limiting the stand-off structure 70 to a single side of the storage device 10, the stand-off structure 70 may be coupled to extend across both sides of the bag 14, as shown in FIG. 13 c. In another example, the stand-off structure 70 may be positioned to extend diagonally across the plastic sheet as depicted in FIG. 13 d. It is noted that examples depicted in FIGS. 13 a-13 d have been provided for illustrative purposes and that other configurations in the positioning of the stand-off 70 are within the scope of the present invention, so long as the stand-off 70 is positioned to be in fluid communication with the vacuum valve assembly 30 in a manner that allows for the removal of liquids and gasses from the storage device 10.

FIG. 14 depicts the positioning of the stand-off structure 70 once the plastic sheet 16 is folded over upon itself and two lateral sides 15 are sealed adjacent to the periphery forming the storage space 22. In the illustrated embodiment, the stand-off structure 70 is depicted as being bound to the face of the plastic sheet 16 within the storage space 22, wherein the channels 72 of the stand-off structure 70 face the surface of the plastic sheet 16 to which the stand-off structure 70 is bound. In an alternate embodiment, the stand off structure 70 may include channels 72 on both sides of the stand off structure 70 (FIG. 12 b), in which the channels on a first side of the stand off structure 70 face the surface of the plastic sheet 16 to which the stand-off structure 70 is bound and the channels 72 on the second side of the stand off structure 70 face the opposing plastic sheet.

FIG. 15 illustrates the cross-section of the storage device 10 depicted in FIG. 14 along reference line 9-9, in which the channels 72 of the stand-off structure 70 are clearly depicted as facing away from the storage space 22 and towards the vacuum valve assembly 30 as well as the surface of the plastic sheet 16 to which the stand-off structure 70 is bound. Prior to the application of a vacuum, the portion of the stand-off structure 70 opposing the vacuum valve assembly 30 may be separated from the vacuum valve assembly 30 by a distance D1 ranging from about 0.003″ to about 0.25″.

In one application, a vacuum pump is attached to the vacuum conduit which includes at least one vacuum valve and in fluid communication therewith, at least one standoff structure. The vacuum pump is operated, applying a vacuum to the interior of the storage device through the vacuum valve assembly 30 and standoff assembly causing the storage space 22 to collapse upon a food article contained therein. During the application of the vacuum, the stand-off structure 70 separates the food article from the vacuum valve assembly 30, ensuring that the food article does not obstruct the flow of air or liquids to be removed from the storage space 22, and insuring that the walls of the storage device conform tightly to the food article. Additionally, as the vacuum causes the portion of the plastic sheet 16 opposing the stand off structure 70 to collapse upon the raised portions of the stand-off structure 70, any remaining liquid and air may be removed via the stand-off structure's 70 recessed channels. During the application of the vacuum, the distance D1 separating the vacuum valve assembly 30 from the opposing raised surfaces of the stand-off structure 70 may be substantially eliminated while maintaining an effective passageway for removing the remaining air and liquids from the storage device through the stand-off structure's 70 recessed channels.

The evacuable package 14 may be produced via any suitable processes. For example, the evacuable package may be made by a horizontal process (e.g., where the flexible material 12 forming side panels 17, 19, and resealable closure 20 move in a generally horizontal direction), a vertical process (e.g., where the flexible material 12 forming side panels 17, 19, and resealable closure 20 move in a generally vertical direction), and combinations thereof.

In one general embodiment of a horizontal process, two extended lengths of the flexible material 12, each forming a side panel 17, 19 move in a generally horizontal direction. An extended length of resealable closure 20 may be attached to side panels 17, 19 or may already be integral with the flexible material 12. A stand-off structure 70 can be attached to one or more of the side panels 17, 19, or can be integral with side panels 17, 19, or can be side panels 17, 19. A vacuum valve 30, and an optional corresponding hole, are typically installed into/produced in one of the extended lengths of flexible material 12 at predetermined intervals, to correspond to one vacuum valve 30 per evacuable package 14. After the various elements have been joined to form an extended length, seals, which will result in lateral sides 15 and bottom edge 13 may be made. Lateral seal portions (not illustrated) which are seals located proximal the overlap of the lateral sides 15 and the resealable closure 20, are usually made (e.g., crushed) simultaneously with the lateral sides 15 seals, but could be made in a separate step.

In alternate embodiment of a horizontal process, one extended length of flexible material 12 moves in a generally horizontal direction. This flexible material is folded to form both side panels 17, 19 and bottom edge 13. Any order of applying resealable closure, stand-off structure 70 and vacuum valve 30 can be used. Similar to the above embodiment, after the various elements have been joined to form an extended length, the lateral sides 15 and lateral seal portions ma y be made.

In one embodiment of a vertical process, two extended lengths of the flexible material 12, each forming a side panel 17, 19 move in a generally vertical downward direction. Similar to above, an extended length of resealable closure 20 may be attached to the side panels 17, 19, before, after, or concurrently with the bottom 13 being sealed, or the resealable closure 20 may already be integral with the flexible material 12. A stand-off structure 70 can be attached to one or more of the side panels 17, 19, or can be side panels 17, 19. A vacuum valve 30, and an option corresponding hole, are typically installed into/produced in one of the extended lengths of flexible material 12 at predetermined intervals, to correspond to one vacuum valve 30 per evacuable package 14. After the various elements have been joined to form an extended length, seals, which will result in lateral sides 15 may be made. Lateral seal portions (not illustrated) which are seals located proximal the overlap of the lateral sides 15 and the resealable closure 20, are usually made (e.g., crushed) simultaneously with the lateral sides 15 seals, but could be made in a separate step.

In alternate embodiment of a vertical process, one extended length of flexible material 12 moves in a generally vertical direction. This flexible material is folded to form both side panels 17, 19 and bottom edge 13. Any order of applying resealable closure, stand-off structure 70 and vacuum valve 30 can be used. Similar to the above embodiment, after the various elements have been joined to form an extended length, the lateral sides 15 and lateral seal portions may be made.

It will be appreciated that the resealable closure structure 20, shown in FIG. 1 a, may be operated by hand, however, as shown in FIGS. 1, 16 a and 16 b, the resealable closure 20 may also include a closing clip 80 and end clips 82. The closing clip 80 is a rigid U-shaped member 84 structured to fit snugly over at least the first and second side protrusions 54, 56, 58. The U-shaped member 84 is structured to bias the male protrusion 54 into the groove 60 formed by the other protrusions 56, 58 as the U-shaped member 84 is moved over the protrusions 54, 56, 58. In the embodiments of the present invention incorporating multiple protrusions, the U-shaped member 84 may be structured to also fit snugly over multiple protrusions 62, 64, wherein the U-shaped member also biases at least one additional male protrusion 62 into at least one additional groove formed by the other protrusions 64. The closure clip 80 functions to ensure that the interlocking profiles 21 are engaged as the clip 80 is disposed along a first direction, but does not affect the engagement of the interlocking profiles 21 when disposed along the direction opposite to that of the first direction. More specifically, the closure clip 80 does not separate the interlocking profiles when being traversed over engaged interlocking profiles 21. The end clips 82 are bonded to the ends of the resealable closure 20 and arrest the motion of the closing clip as it traverses the bag 14. The cross-section of an end clip is depicted in FIG. 17.

As mentioned above, in one embodiment the reclosable storage device comprises a portion of a system which includes a vacuum device having a low pressure side attached to a vacuum conduit which is in fluid communication with the interior of the storage device and which conduit includes a vacuum valve (described above). Optionally, the assembly includes also a quick-disconnect means in the vacuum conduit between the vacuum pump and the storage device and optionally includes a gas/liquid separator means in the vacuum conduit between the suction side of the vacuum pump and the storage device.

As will be appreciated, any number of vacuum devices can be utilized to evacuate a reclosable storage device in accordance with the present invention, however, in some embodiments, it is preferred to employ a hand-held or portable vacuum pump. An example of one suitable portable device is illustrated in FIG. 21. The portable vacuum pump assembly illustrated in FIG. 21, pump 40, includes a power source, such as a battery, a vacuum pump having a suction side and an exhaust side, and a motor, (all not shown). The vacuum pump may be connected to the fluid conduit connected to the interior of the storage device by a quick-connect means, wherein one portion of the quick-connect means is integral with the vacuum pump assembly and another portion of the quick-connect means is integral with the flexible storage device. An example of this is illustrated in FIG. 1 as engagement end 42 of vacuum pump 40. As illustrated, engagement end 42 has a defined shape, for example, a convex disk, concave disk or a disk shaped to fit within the medial opening of the outer surface of a vacuum valve assembly's defining one end of a fluid conduit associated with a storage device. The engagement end 42 has a defined shape structured to engage the vacuum valve assembly 30 and defines a passage that is in fluid communication with the vacuum pump 40. Thus, the engagement end of the portable vacuum pump 40 may function as a quick-connect means, for example, as illustrated in FIGS. 18(a) and 18(b) a suction cup tip 260, in which the suction cup tip 260 incorporates integrated stand off structures 261 to maintain suction during application of the vacuum as depicted in FIGS. 18(a) and 18(b). It is noted that other quick-connect means, for example, vacuum tips (engagement end 42) have been contemplated and are within the scope of the present invention, so long as the engagement end 42 geometry provides a quick connect engagement with the vacuum valve assembly. A “quick connection engagement” generally requires sealing of the vacuum valve assembly 30 and engagement end 42 without separate fasteners or the removal of separable sealing members. It will be appreciated that the system may also utilize more conventional coupling means to join the vacuum system to the fluid conduit to provide fluid communication between the suction side of the vacuum pump and the interior of the storage device.

As shown in FIGS. 19 and 20, the assembly may also include a liquid separator assembly 90. The liquid separator assembly 90 is structured to collect a liquid, while allowing gases to be drawn into the suction side of the vacuum pump assembly 40. In one embodiment, the liquid separator assembly 90 includes a tube 92, and accumulator housing 94 and a diverter 96. The tube 92 further includes a base 98 structured to sealingly engage both the attachment end 42 and the accumulator housing 94. The accumulator housing 94 is shaped as a cup and is structured to contain a liquid. The diverter 96 is structured to engage the distal end of the tube 92 and redirect the fluid flow from an axial direction in the tube 92 into the accumulator housing 94. Thus, when assembled, the attachment end 42 is coupled to the lower side of the tube base 98 and the accumulator housing 94 is coupled to the upper side of the tube base 98. The diverter 96 is disposed at the distal end of the tube 92. Thus, there is a fluid passage from the attachment end 42 into the accumulator housing 94.

In operation, the portable vacuum pump 40 is structured to engage the vacuum conduit connected to the interior of the storage device, for example, as illustrated, the outer surface of the vacuum valve assembly 30. When the portable vacuum pump 40 is engaged and actuated the vacuum valve assembly 30 is actuated by the resultant pressure differential, the valve element 35 moves into the first position (described above) and the vacuum conduit passage is open and fluid (gas and liquid) is withdrawn from the bag 14 through the vacuum conduit into the suction side of the vacuum pump. The fluid may be both liquid and gas. When a separator assembly is present in the vacuum conduit, liquid and gas are drawn into the liquid separator assembly 90, the liquid contacts the diverter 96 and is deposited in the accumulator housing 94. Thus, the liquid is not drawn with the gas towards the vacuum pump. The gas is exhausted via the vacuum pump from the vacuum pump assembly 40. When the accumulator housing 94 needs to be emptied, a user may simply remove the tube 92 and base 98 allowing the liquid to drain from the vacuum pump assembly 40.

When a portable vacuum pump 40 is actuated, air is withdrawn from the storage space 22. Thus, as shown in FIG. 21, an item, such as a food article 1 shown in ghost, may be placed in a storage device 10. The stand-off structure 70 is structured to prevent the plastic sheet that forms the evacuable bag 14, or an item within the bag 14, from obstructing the vacuum valve assembly 30. That is, the channels 72 on the stand-off structure 70 provide a path for liquids and gases within the bag 14 to reach the vacuum valve assembly 30. In the embodiments of the invention in which the stand-off assembly has channels positioned on both sides of the stand-off structure 70, the channels contacting the item contained within the bag ensures that liquids and gasses are not trapped between the stand-off structure 70 and the item contained within the storage space.

To further assist in facilitating the removal of fluids from the evacuable package 14 to form a vacuum, it may be useful to restrict flow of solids and/or liquids proximal the valve 30. Thus, in one embodiment, one or more barriers may be utilized proximal at least a portion of the vacuum valve 30. These barriers may be a part of the stand-off structure 70, or may be separate from the stand-off structure 70. One embodiment of a useful barrier arrangement is illustrated in FIG. 22 a. In the illustrated embodiment, the evacuable package 14 includes a vacuum valve 30 surrounded by a plurality of barriers 76. The plurality of barriers 76 at least assist in defining a plurality of channels 77, which assist in providing fluid communication between the vacuum valve 30 and the storage space 22 of the evacuable package 14. The barriers 76 generally interconnect a first side of the evacuable package 14 to a second opposing side of the evacuable package 14, thereby restricting movement of fluids and/or liquids into and/or proximal the vacuum valve 30.

The plurality of barriers 76 may be formed by any suitable methods. For example, at least a portion of the first side panel 17 of the evacuable package 14 may be bonded to a portion of the second side panel 19 of the evacuable package 14 (e.g., via heat sealing and/or an adhesive), thereby creating one or more barriers 76 integral with both these first and second side panels 17, 19. Thus, the barriers 76 may comprise an uninterrupted span from the first side panel 17 to the second side panel 19 of the evacuable package 14. In one embodiment, the barriers 76 consist essentially of portions of the first and second side panels 17, 19 of the evacuable package 14. In another embodiment, a polymeric material may be bonded to each of the first and second side panels 17, 19 of the evacuable package 14 to provide the barriers 76. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of barriers 76 are intermittently spaced about at least a portion of the vacuum valve 30. Thus, the plurality of barriers 76 at least assist in defining a portion of one or more of the channels 77.

The barriers 76 may be spaced about the valve 30 in any suitable arrangement. By way of example, the barriers 76 may define at least a portion of an ellipse, as illustrated in FIG. 22 a. In another example, and with reference to FIG. 22 b, the barriers 76 may be located in a non-linear and/or non-elliptical fashion about at least a portion of the periphery of the valve 30. In another embodiment, and with reference to FIG. 22 c, at least some of barriers 76 may be disposed on a line, thereby defining a sealing line. This sealing line may be oriented in any manner relative the valve 30, but is generally oriented transverse to at least one lateral side 15 of the evacuable package 14. One particularly useful aspect of this embodiment is that the sealing line may assist in providing a visual indicator to a user of the evacuable package 14 regarding the filling limits of the evacuable package 14. More particularly, the sealing line may be visible from the exterior of the evacuable package 14, thereby facilitating visual confirmation of a fill level for the evacuable package 14 by a user.

In a related embodiment, a separate visual indicator may be utilized on the exterior of the evacuable package 14. This visual indicator may correspond with the orientation of the sealing line. Thus, the fill level of the evacuable package 14 may be further emphasized. In one embodiment, the visual indicator is a color indication and/or a textural indication. This visual indicator may also be utilized without the use of barriers 76, thereby providing an external visual indicator to a user of the fill level of the evacuable package.

As illustrated in FIGS. 22 a and 22 b, the barriers 76 may be utilized without a stand-off structure 70, thereby reducing material costs associated with production of the evacuable package 14. In another embodiment, a stand-off structure 70 may be used in conjunction with the barriers 76. For example, a stand-off structure 70, such as described above, may be utilized proximal the barriers 76. In a particular embodiment, and as illustrated in FIG. 22 c, at least a portion of some of the plurality of barriers 76 may overlap with the stand-off structure 70, thereby providing various fluid evacuation pathways and further assisting in removal of fluids from the evacuable package 14. In one embodiment, the barriers 76 are a portion of the stand-off structure 70.

The plurality of barriers 76 may be located in any suitable location within the evacuable package 14. As described above, the plurality of barriers 76 may be located proximal the periphery of the vacuum valve 30. In another embodiment, and with reference to FIG. 22 d, the barriers 76 may be located proximal at least a portion of the perimeter of evacuable package 14. In this embodiment, a plurality of barriers 76 a-76 h may at least assist in defining a plurality of pathways 78 and channels 77 a-77 d via which fluids may flow to the vacuum valve 30. In the illustrated embodiment, a first barrier 76 a is located proximal the vacuum valve 30 and is substantially parallel to a lateral side 15 a of the evacuable package 14. A second barrier 76 b is also located proximal the lateral side 15 a of the evacuable package 14 and is offset from the first barrier 76 a, thereby defining at least a portion of a channel 77 a through which fluids may flow to the vacuum valve 30. A third barrier 76 c is interconnected to the second barrier 76 b and is substantially orthogonal to the second barrier 76 b. Thus, the third barrier 76 c is located substantially parallel to the bottom 13 of evacuable package 14 and is substantially orthogonal to the lateral sides 15 a, 15 b of the evacuable package 14. A fourth barrier 76 d is also located substantially parallel to the bottom 13 of the evacuable package 14 and is offset from the third barrier 76 c, thereby defining a channel 77 b through which fluids may flow to the vacuum valve 30. In turn, barriers 76 e, 76 f, 76 g and 76 h may also be utilized to define channel 77 c and channel 77 d through which fluids may flow to the vacuum valve 30. These barriers may be formed as described above, such as by a heat sealing and/or an adhesive. A vacuum pump 40 may be utilized in conjunction with the vacuum valve 30 to remove at least a portion of the fluids within the evacuable package 14 via pathways 78, channels 77 a, 77 b, 77 c and 77 d.

As may be appreciated, a resealable closure 20 may also be utilized in accordance with any of the above referenced barrier embodiments. For example, and with continued reference to FIG. 22 d, a resealable closure 20 may be utilized in conjunction with the evacuable package 14 and plurality of barrier structures 76 a-76 h. The resealable closure 20 may also be used with any of the embodiments as described above and with any of the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 22 a-22 c.

As noted above, a stand-off structure 70 may be utilized within the evacuable package 14 to facilitate fluid communication between the interior of the evacuable package 14 and the vacuum valve 30. As may be appreciated, extra materials and/or handling time may be required to interconnect the stand-off structure 70 to the interior of the evacuable package 14. Thus, in one embodiment of the present invention, a resealable closure comprising a stand-off structure may be used. One embodiment of such a resealable closure is illustrated in FIGS. 23, 24 and 25 a-25 c, in which the evacuable package 14 may include a resealable closure 230 that includes at least a portion of the stand-off structure 70 and/or the vacuum valve 30. The use of such resealable closure 230 may facilitate restricted manufacturing time and/or decrease material costs, as will be described in further detail below.

Referring now to FIGS. 25 a-25 c, in this embodiment, the evacuable package 14 includes a resealable closure 230 that includes a first flange 50, such as described above, and a second flange 52′. The second flange 52′ includes a top portion 52 a, such as the second flange 52 described above. The second flange 52′ also includes a skirt portion 52 b interconnected to, and often integral with, the top portion 52 a. The skirt portion 52 b comprises a stand-off structure 70, such as any of the stand-off structures described above. In one embodiment, the stand-off structure 70 is an embossed structure, as will be described in further detail below. Each of the flanges 50, 52′, may include the interengaging profiles 21, such as any of the interengaging profiles described above.

The second flange 52′ may include a vacuum valve 30 interconnected therewith. In this regard, any of the vacuum valve assemblies described above may be utilized in conjunction with the skirt portion 52 b of the second flange 52′. For example, a hole may be punched in the skirt portion 52 b followed by interconnection of a vacuum valve 30 to the skirt portion 52 b relative to the punched hole. In another embodiment, and as described in further detail below, the vacuum valve 30 may be integral with the skirt flange portion 52 b, where the vacuum valve 30 is formed via ultrasonic welding and/or thermal heating techniques.

The top portion 52 a and skirt portion 52 b of the resealable closure 230 may comprise any suitable material. For example, the top portion 52 a may comprise a first polymeric material (e.g., low-density polyethylene (LDPE) or linear-low density polyethylene (LLDPE) having a melting point of about at least about 350° F., such as at least about 370° F. The skirt portion 52 b may comprise this same first polymeric material, or the skirt portion 52 b may comprise a second polymeric material. For example, it may be desirable to facilitate bonding of a vacuum valve 30 to the skirt portion 52 b without substantial degradation of the skirt portion. Thus, in one embodiment, the skirt portion 52 b may comprise a polymeric material having a melting point of at least about 275° F., such as at least about 350° F., or at least about 400° F., or even at least about 420° F. to facilitate ultrasonic welding of and/or thermal bonding of the vacuum valve 30 to the skirt portion 52 b. One useful material in this regard is medium density polyethylene (MDPE).

In a related approach, the top portion 52 a may have an average thickness, excluding the interengaging profiles 21, such as at least about 3 mils. The skirt portion 52 b may have an average thickness, such as at least about 10 mils, 20 mils or even at least about 30 mils. In the latter regard, bonding of the vacuum valve 30 to the skirt portion 52 b may be facilitated due to the increased thickness of the skirt portion 52 b. In one approach, the ratio of the thickness of the skirt portion 52 b to the thickness of the top portion 52 a is at least about 1.5:1, such as at least about 3:1, at least about 5:1, or even at least about 10:1.

The first flange 50 and second flange 52′ of the resealable closure 230 may be produced by any known or developed techniques. One embodiment for creating a resealable closure 230 comprising a stand-off structure 70 is illustrated in FIG. 26. In the illustrated embodiment, the second flange 52′ is fed between an anvil roll 87 and an embossing roll 88, the embossing roll 88 including an embossing portion 91 and a non-embossed portion 89. As the second flange 52′ is fed through the anvil roll 87 and the embossing roll 88, the embossing portion 91 embosses the skirt portion 52 b of the second flange 52′, thereby providing a stand-off structure 70 thereon. The intermittent non-embossed portion 89 of the embossing roll 88 facilitates production of non-embossed portions 79 of the skirt portion 52 b of the second flange 52′. Such non-embossed portions 79 facilitate a hermetic seal at the lateral edges 15 of the evacuable bag 14 by providing a relatively smooth surface for welding of ends of the resealable closure 230 to the flexible material 12 of the evacuable bag 14.

The embossing may be accomplished while the resealable closure 230 is in a cold form, such as prior to the resealable closure 230 being interconnected with the flexible material 12, which results in construction of the evacuable package 14. Alternatively, the skirt portion 52 b may be embossed while the resealable closure 230 is being manufactured. In this regard, the resealable closure 230 could then be immediately fed to an apparatus for interconnection of the resealable closure 230 to the flexible material 12, thereby facilitating increased manufacturing efficiency.

As noted above, a vacuum valve 30 may be utilized in conjunction with the resealable closure 230 and stand-off structure 70. In one approach, a vacuum valve assembly 30 may be interconnected to the resealable closure 230, such as via thermal welding, chemical bonding, or adhesives. In this regard, a hole may be punched through a portion of the resealable closure 230, after which a vacuum valve 30 may be positioned relative to the hole and bonded thereafter to the resealable closure 230.

In another embodiment, a vacuum valve may be formed integral with the resealable closure 230. One system for forming such a vacuum valve is illustrated in FIG. 27 a. In the illustrated embodiment, a valve forming source 46, such as an ultrasonic forming source or a thermal forming source, is used to form the vacuum valve 30 via tip 47 and anvil 48. More particularly, the resealable closure 230 may be placed between the anvil 48 and the valve forming source 46. A portion of the resealable closure 230 (e.g., a skirt portion) may be contacted by a die 49 of the anvil 48, while an opposing side of the same portion of the resealable closure 230 is subjected to energy from the valve forming source. The energy (e.g., ultrasonic and/or thermal) provided to that portion of the resealable closure 230, in conjunction with the die 49, mold that portion of the resealable closure 230 into the desired valve shape. For example, the thermoplastic molding techniques described in any of U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,569,368; 6,981,936; 6,840,675; 6,733,622; 6,662,410; 6,036,796; and 5,948,337 may be used to form the vacuum valve 30. Valves of this type are available from ENR Group, Inc. of Slinger, Wis. As may be appreciated, this process may be applied to a single resealable closure 230, as illustrated in FIG. 27 a, or may be applied to a strip containing a plurality of resealable closures 230, as illustrated in FIG. 27 b.

As may be appreciated, various types of food products may be utilized in accordance with the present invention. For example, raw meats may often be utilized within the evacuable package 14. Such meats may include various liquids, such as blood, which, while non-frozen, may appear normal to a user. However, upon removal of fluids from the evacuable package 14, such as via the vacuum pump 40 described above, followed by freezing of the meat, portions of liquids within the evacuable package 14 may streak and/or otherwise provide a undesirable visual appearance to a user. Thus, in one embodiment of the present invention, a wicking material may be utilized in conjunction with the evacuable package 14 to facilitate wicking of liquids away from food products, thereby restricting possible undesired visual effects. One embodiment of such an evacuable package 14 is illustrated in FIG. 28. In the illustrated embodiment, the evacuable package 14 includes a resealable closure 20, such as described above, a vacuum valve 30, such as described above, and a stand-off structure 70, such as described above. The evacuable package 14 also includes a plurality of barriers 76, which at least assist in defining a plurality of channels 77, such as described above. The plurality of barriers 76 define wicking section WS, which allows for the wicking of liquids into a wicking material 93. More particularly, fluids from the storage space 22 of the evacuable package 14 may be drawn to and/or flow through channels 77 and into the wicking section WS. The wicking material 93 collects such liquids, thereby removing those liquids from the central portion of the storage space 22 of the evacuable package 14, which may assist in reducing undesired visual effects from freezing of a material. The barriers 76 also restrict the wicking material 93 from movement outside of the wicking section WS of the evacuable package 14.

In another embodiment, the wicking material 93 is utilized within the storage space 22 of the evacuable package 14 without the use of barriers 76. In this embodiment, an adhesive or other suitable type of bonding material may be utilized to adhere the wicking material 93 to one or more of the side panels 17, 19 of the evacuable bag, thereby restricting movement of the wicking material 93 within the evacuable package 14.

The wicking material 93 may be may be any material adapted to wick, adsorb or absorb liquids. For example, the wicking material 93 may be a cellulose-based material, such as paper, or a synthetic absorbent (e.g., a sponge), a desiccant material, or any other material adapted to wick, adsorb or absorb liquids. The wicking material 93 may be associated with the evacuable package 14 at any suitable time. In one approach, the wicking material 93 is applied to at least one side of the flexible material 12 during the production of the evacuable bag 14. For example, a label-type applicator may be utilized to apply a paper-type wicking material to the flexible material 12 at any suitable time during a horizontal or vertical bag manufacturing process, as described above.

As noted above, a pump 40 may be utilized in conjunction with the vacuum valve 30 to facilitate removal of fluids therefrom. As described above, the pump 40 may be utilized with the vacuum valve 30 via a quick connect engagement, wherein separate fasteners are not used to connect the pump to the valve. In another approach, a docking ring may be utilized to facilitate alignment an interconnection of the pump 40 and the vacuum valve 30. One embodiment of a docking ring arrangement is illustrated in FIGS. 29-31. In the illustrated embodiment, the docking ring 130 is interconnected to the first panel 17 of the evacuable package 10 (not fully illustrated) and circumscribes the vacuum valve 30, thereby defining cavity 140. The docking ring 130 is aligned relative to vacuum valve 30 so that when the engagement end 42 of the pump 40 is interconnected therewith (e.g., at least partially disposed within cavity 140), a nose portion 41 of the pump 40 is properly aligned relative to the vacuum valve 30.

In particular, the docking ring 130 comprises an outer surface 131, an inner surface 132, an upper surface 133, and a lower surface 134, and generally comprises a rigid polymeric material adapted to restrictively engage the nose 41 of the pump while the nose 41 is disposed therein. For example, the docking ring 130 may comprise medium density polyethylene (MDPE) or liner low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) or similarly rigid polymeric materials. For conventional consumer-type food storage bags, the docking ring 130 may have a height (i.e., width of the outer surface 131) of from about on-sixteenth of an inch to about one-quarter of an inch. The lower surface 134 is fixedly interconnected to the first panel 17 of the evacuable package (e.g., via an adhesive). The inner surface 133 circumscribes the vacuum valve 30 and defines the cavity 140. In one approach, the engagement end 42 of the pump 40 is sized to restrictively engage the inner surface 132, and hence the cavity 140 of the pump 40 when the engagement end of the is placed therein, as illustrated in FIGS. 32 a-32 b. In another approach (not illustrated), the engagement end 42 of the pump 40 is sized to restrictively engage the outer surface 131 of the docking ring 130.

To facilitate alignment of the engagement end 42 of the pump, the docking ring 130 may include a one or more complementary features for engaging a complementary feature of the pump 40. In the illustrated embodiment, the docking ring 130 comprises at least one female member 134 for receiving at least one male member 44 of the engagement end 42 of the pump 40. The male member(s) 44 may be a rigid material, such as a rigid plastic material. To place the engagement end 42 of the pump 40 within the cavity 140, the male member(s) 44 and female member(s) 134 are aligned. Once aligned, the engagement end 42 of the pump 40 may be inserted into the cavity 140.

To further facilitating interconnection of the pump 40 and valve 30, other complementary features may be used. For example, the docking ring 130 may comprise one or more female threads adapted to restrictively engage male threads, a male member or other complementary features of the pump 40. In the illustrated embodiment, the docking ring 130 comprises a female thread 137 defined by upper lip 135 and lower lip 136. After receipt of the engagement end 42 of the pump 40 into the docking ring 130 via the female members 134 and male members 44, the engagement end 42 of the pump 40 may be rotated, thereby moving male members 44 into female thread 137. Thus, the engagement end 42 of the pump 40 may be further restrictively engaged.

In one embodiment, the female thread 137 may be tapered, such as in a downward direction relative to the upper surface 133 of the docking ring 130. Thus, as the engagement end 42 of the pump 40 is rotated, the nose 41 may be axially pressed downward toward, and in some instances against, the vacuum valve 30, first panel 17 and/or ribs 142 (described below). The taper of the female thread 132 may be designed so as to facilitate application of a desired amount of force by the nose 41, or other portion of the pump 40, on the vacuum valve 30 and or ribs 142.

While the foregoing description and illustrations depict a female thread 137 utilized on the inner surface 132 of the docking ring 130, various other configurations may be utilized. For example, one or more female threads may also/alternatively be utilized on the outer surface 131 and/or upper surface 133 of the docking ring. Likewise, a male thread may be utilized with the docking ring 130, either on the inner surface 132, outer surface 131 and/or upper surface 133. A taper may also/alternatively be utilized with a male thread. Furthermore, other complementary engaging features may be utilized (e.g., tongue-groove) with respect to the aligning of the pump 40 and/or provision of force to the vacuum valve 30 and/or ribs 142 by the nose 41. In some embodiments, the docking ring may be utilized without any complementary engaging features, wherein the nose 41 of the pump 40 may be engaged with and disengaged from the docking ring 130 without the need to align/engage features of either the docking ring 130 and/or pump 40. In these embodiments, the inner surface 132 of the docking ring 130 may be substantially smooth (e.g., bare of complementary feature(s)) and the engagement end 42 of the pump 40 may be absent of complementary features.

With continued reference to FIGS. 29-32 b, optional ribs 142 may attached to the outer surface of the first panel 17, in between the outer edges the vacuum valve 30 and the inner surface 131 of the docking ring 130. As illustrated in FIGS. 32 a-32 b, the ribs 142 may be utilized to further facilitate evacuation of the storage device 10 by creating a space 143. More particularly, as nose 41 of the pump 40 engages the ribs 142, ribs 142 will be pressed and move toward the second panel 19 (not illustrated) of the evacuable package 10, thereby creating space 143. Thus, during operation of pump 40, the second panel 19 of the evacuable package 10 will be restricted from physically communicating with hole 34 in the first panel 17 and/or vacuum valve 30. Hence, the probability of plugging/blocking of hole 34 and vacuum valve 30 may be reduced.

Referring now to FIGS. 34 and 35, another package embodiment is illustrated. Package 1210 has a first side panel 1212 and an opposite side panel 1214 that are connected by side edges 1215, 1216, 1218. For clarity herein, side edge 1215 can be referred to as a bottom edge 1215. Side panels 1212, 1214 and side edges 1215, 1216, 1218 define a surrounding wall 1213 with an interior 1220 therebetween. Various other configurations of surrounding walls are known. Interior 1220 is configured for receiving a food item or other items for storage within package 1210.

At the top end of package 1210, that is, the side of package 1210 opposite bottom edge 1215, a resealable zipper 1250 is present. Zipper 1250 is present across a mouth of package 1210 that provides access to interior 1220. Zipper 1250 includes a first profile member 1252 and a second profile member 1254, wherein the first and second profile members 1252, 1254 are configured to engage and disengage with each other. In other words, first and second profile members 1252, 1254 are sealable and resealable. First profile member 1252 is connected to first side panel 1212 and second profile member 1254 is connected to second side panel 1214. Profile members 1252, 1254 could be integral with their respective side panel 1212, 1214 or could be attached thereto, for example, by a heat seal or adhesive. Zippers 1250 and profile members 1252, 1254 are well known in the art. For example, see U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,524,002; 6,152,600; 5,839,831, and 5,252,281, each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Referring to FIG. 34, package 1210 includes a valve 1230, positioned in side panel 1212 to allow escape of air from interior 1220 to the exterior of package 1210. Valve 1230 is preferably a one-way valve, allowing flow of fluid therethrough in only one direction; preferably, that direction is from interior 1220 of package 1210 to the exterior of package 1210. The fluid to pass through valve 1230 can be either or both gaseous or liquid. In most uses of package 1210, the fluid passing through valve 1230 will be air. Valve 1230 can be any suitable valve, including those known as “Goglio” type or “Raackmann” type. Goglio-type valves are available, for example, from Bosch, Wipf and Wico; Raackmann-type valves are available, for example, from Amcor. Other examples of suitable valves 1230 include those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,913,803; 6,733,803; 6,607,764, and 6,539,691, each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Package 1210 also includes sealant stripe 1270 present on the interior of at least one of side panels 1212, 1214. Sealant stripe 1270 is preferably a peal seal, which can be sealed, readily opened, and resealed. Examples of peal seals include those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,290,393; 6,210,038, and 6,131,248, each of which is incorporated herein by reference. Sealant stripes and resealable zippers may be generally referred to as “closures” useful for closing portions of a package or storage device.

One particular application for package 1210 illustrated in FIGS. 34 and 35 is as a freezer bag. Package 1210 includes a textured standoff area 1280, which can be integral with each of side panels 1212, 1214. In other embodiments, textured standoff area 1280 can be attached to a surface of panels 1212, 1214. Preferably, textured standoff area 1280 is present on the interior of each of panels 1212, 1214. Such a textured standoff area 1280 is beneficial for freezer bags, where it is desired to maintain a slight air gap or spacing between any items positioned within package 1210 and side panels 1212, 1214.

Returning to package 1210, in detail, various specific details of package will now be described. It is understood however, that the following descriptions are not limiting to features of package 1210, with alternate materials, constructions, and the like could be used to provide a package according to the present disclosure.

Package 1210 has side panels 1212 and 1214, which form the overall package 1210. Side panels 1212, 1214 are flexible sheets, typically polymeric film. Examples of suitable films for use as panels 1212, 1214 are well known, and include polyethylene, polypropylene, and the like.

As provided above, side panels 1212, 1214 meet at bottom edge 1215 and side edges 1216, 218. Any or all of edges 1215, 1216, 1218 maybe seals or maybe folds. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 35, bottom edge 1215 is a fold between side panel 1212 and side panel 1214; that is, a sheet of material has been folded to form panels 1212, 1214 and bottom edge 1215. Typically, in constructions having bottom edge 1215 being a fold, side edges 1216, 1218 are sealed edges; that is, side panels 1212, 1214 are sealed to one another, for example by heat sealing. In other embodiments, side edge 1216 is a folded edge and bottom edge 1215 and side edge 1218 are sealed. In yet another embodiment, each of side edges 1216, 1218 are folded and bottom edge 1215 is sealed. Still further, embodiments of package 1210 could have each of edges 1215, 1216, 1218 being sealed. These various edge configurations are known in the art and any of these are suitable for package 1210.

As provided above, zipper 1250 has first profile 1252 and second profile 1254, which engage and disengage from each other to provide access to interior 1020 of package 1210. Profiles 1252, 1254 are constructed to be repeatedly sealed (e.g., closed, engaged, mated, etc.) and unsealed (e.g., opened, disengaged, unmated, etc.), for example, by pressure exerted by the user's fingers. In some embodiments, profiles 1252, 1254 are configured to provide an indication, for example by color change, when they are seal. Although not illustrated in FIG. 34 or 35, zipper 1250 may be open and closed by a slider element, as are well known. See for example U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,679,027; Des. 480,988; Des. 479,467, and 6,450,686, each of which is incorporated herein by reference, for examples of suitable slider elements.

As provided above, sealant stripe 1270 is present on the interior of at least one of panels 1212, 1214. In some embodiments, sealant stripe 1270 is integral with or part of panel 1212, 1214. Alternately, sealant strip 1270 may be present on a surface of side panel 1212, 1214; see FIG. 35 where sealing stripe 1270 is illustrated as a piece of material adhered to each of panels 1212, 1214. Sealant stripe 1270 allows panels 1212, 1214 to be sealed together, preferably with a fluid-impermeable or hermetic seal. Sealant stripe 1270 preferably extends from side edge 1216 to side edge 1218, and may be any suitable width (taken in the direction from bottom edge 1215 to zipper 1250).

Package 1210 preferably includes textured standoff area 1280, particularly if package 1210 is intended to be a freezer bag. By the term “freezer bag,” it is meant a package that is intended to be used for storing items at temperatures below 30° F., often at temperatures below 20° F. Such a textured standoff area 1280 is beneficial for freezer bags, where it is desired to maintain a slight air gap or spacing between any items positioned within package 1210 and side panels 1212, 1214, to inhibit freezer burn. Textured standoff area 1280 is preferably present on each of panels 1212, 1214 and may occupy any area. For example, textured standoff area 1280 may extend to any side edges 216, 18 or may stop short of edges 216, 218. Similarly, textured standoff area 1280 may extend to bottom edge 1215 or may stop short of bottom edge 1215. The width of textured standoff area 1280 (taken in the direction from bottom edge 1215 to zipper 1250) is usually at least 5 cm wide, and often at least 7.5 cm wide. Preferably, textured standoff area 1280 is not present in the area of sealant strip 1270. It is understood that the area of textured standoff area 1280 will be dependent on the overall size of package 1210 and side panels 1212, 1214.

Referring again to FIGS. 34 and 35, package 1210 includes valve 1230, which is positioned between zipper 1250 and sealant stripe 1270. An alternate embodiment of a package according to the present disclosure is illustrated in FIGS. 36-39, as package 1210′. Package 1210′ is similar to package 1210 and that it includes first panel 1212, second panel 1214, bottom end 215, side edges 216, 218, valve 1230, sealant stripe 1270 and textured standoff region 1280. Package 1210′ differs from package 1210, however, in that for package 1210′, sealant stripe 1270 is positioned between zipper 1250 and valve 1230. That is, valve 1230 is positioned closer to interior 1220 then to zipper 1250, Valve 1230 allows fluid, usually air, to pass from interior 1220 of package 1210, 210′ to the exterior, and inhibits air (or other fluid) from entering into interior 1220.

FIG. 39 illustrates an example embodiment for zipper 1250. Zipper 1250 includes zipper profiles 1252, 1254 having posts 1251, 1253, lock members 1255, 1256, and zipper flanges or tabs 258, 259. Many other zipper configurations are possible for use with the packages 1210, 1210′. In some embodiments, the packages include at least one sealant stripe and no zipper for closing the package. For example, FIGS. 42 and 43 illustrate a package 1510 that includes a sealant stripe 1270 positioned at an end of the package opposite the bottom end 215. The package 1510 includes a valve 1230 in communication with an interior 1220 of the package, and a standoff area 1280 on opposing side panels 1212, 1214 of the package.

FIGS. 37 and 38 illustrate package 1210′ in use, retaining an item 1290 therein. Item 1290 is illustrated as a food item, particularly, a chicken leg. To place item 1290 in package 1210′ (or in package 1210), the general following procedure is followed. Zipper 1250 is opened, if necessary, by un-mating, unsealing, etc. first and second profiles 1252, 1254. Side panels 1212, 1214 are spread sufficiently far to place item 1290 therebetween. Sometimes, it may be necessary to unseal sealant strip 1270 to pass item 1290 past stripe 1270 toward bottom edge 1215. Item 1290 should be positioned between bottom edge 1215 and sealant strip 1270. In some embodiments; item 1290 may be positioned in the area of textured standoff area 1280, however, this is not necessary.

After positioning item 1290 in package 1210′, it is optional to push or otherwise urge air present in package 1210′ out via zipper 1250. Sealant stripe 1270 is sealed, providing an air-tight seal across package 1210′. Zipper 1250 is also sealed, providing a seal across package 1210′. It is understood that sealant stripe 1270 may be sealed before or after zipper 1250 is closed. When pressure is applied to package 1210′ in an area between bottom edge 1215 and sealant stripe 1270, at least some of the air remaining in package 1210′ is pushed through valve 1230 and out from interior 1220 of package 1210′.

Due to the construction of package 1210 of FIGS. 34 and 35, the order of steps for sealing an item 1290 in package 1210 may differ. For example, after positioning item 1290 in package 1210, it is optional to push or otherwise urge air present in package 1210 out via zipper 1250. Zipper 1250 is then sealed, providing a seal across package 1210. When pressure is applied to package 1210 in an area between bottom edge 1215 and zipper 1250, at least some of the air remaining in package 1210 is pushed through valve 30 and out from interior 1220 of package 1210. Sealant stripe 1270 is sealed, providing an air-tight seal across package 1210. Preferably, sealant stripe 1270 is sealed after zipper 1250 is closed and after the air has been evacuated from interior 1220 of package 1210.

Packages 1210, 1210′ may be made by generally any suitable process. For example, packages 1210, 1210′ may be made by a horizontal process (e.g., where the film forming side panels 1212, 1214 moves in a generally horizontal direction) or a vertical process (e.g., where the film forming side panels 1212, 1214 moves in a generally vertical direction). As mentioned above, any or all of edges 1215, 1216, 1218 may be folds or seals between side panels 1212, 1214. Profile members 1252, 1254 may be attached to side panels 1212, 1214 before or after bottom edge 1215 is formed. Similarly, a slider device (if present) may be applied to profile members 1252, 1254 before or after incorporation with side panels 1212, 1214. Packages 1210, 1210′ may include side gussets or gussets in panels 1212, 1214 to provide increased interiors 1220. Various other configurations and methods of making packages 1210, 1210′ are suitable.

Referring now to FIGS. 40 and 41, another example package 1310 in accordance with the present disclosure is illustrated. Package 1310 has a first side panel 1312 and an opposite side panel 1314 that are connected by side edges 1315, 1316, 1318. For clarity herein, side edge 1315 can be referred to as a bottom edge 1315. Side panels 1312, 1314 and side edges 1315, 1316, 1318 define a surrounding wall 1313 with a storage interior 1320 therebetween. Seal 1370 also defines a portion of storage interior 1320; seal 1370 is described below. Various other configurations of surrounding walls 1313 are known and are useable in accordance with the principles of this disclosure. Storage interior 1320 is configured for receiving a foodstuff item 1390 or other item(s) for storage within package 1310. In FIGS. 40 and 41, food item 1390 is a collection of small food items, such as shredded cheese, meats, fruits, or vegetables.

In the one depicted in the drawings, at the top end of package 1310, that is, the side of package 1310 opposite bottom edge 1315, is top edge 1335. A surrounding wall 1330 is defined by first side panel 1312, second side panel 1314, side edges 1316, 1318, top edge 1335 and by seal 1370.

Present within the interior formed by surrounding wall 1330 is a resealable zipper closure 1350. Zipper closure 1350 extends from side edge 1316 to side edge 1318, and includes a first zipper profile 1354 having a first profile member and a second zipper profile 1352 having a second profile member; wherein the first and second zipper profiles 1354, 1352 are configured to engage and disengage with each other. In other words, first and second zipper profiles 1354, 1352 are selectively sealable and resealable.

In the embodiment shown, first zipper profile 1354 is connected to first side panel 1312, and second zipper profile 1352 is connected to second side panel 1314. Zipper profiles 1354, 1352 could be integral with their respective side panel 1312, 1314 or could be attached thereto, for example, by a heat seal or adhesive. Zippers 350, zipper profiles 1354, 1352 and profile members are well-known in the art, and a variety of configurations are useable in accordance with the principles of this disclosure. For example, see U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,524,002; 6,152,600; 5,839,831, and 5,252,281, each of which has been incorporated herein by reference. In the one shown, zipper closure 1350, at each side edge 1316, 318, includes a crush area 1410, where zipper profiles 1354, 1352 are sealed together and may be partially crushed or deformed.

At top edge 1335, package 1310 includes header 1336, which extends between top edge 35 and zipper closure 1350 and forms a portion of surrounding wall 1330. In this particular embodiment, header 1336 is detachable from package 1310 via weakness 1360. Weakness 1360 may be a perforation, a tear-strip, string or thread, a laser scope, a die line, a thinner area, or other configuration that allows header 1336 to be removed from side panels 1312, 1314. Header 1336 is an element that provides a quick indication whether or not access has been gained to zipper closure 1350. That is, access is not readily gained to the interior of surrounding wall 1330, which has zipper closure 1350 therein, without breaching header 1336 or side panels 1312, 1314. To gain access to zipper closure 1350, header 1336 is removed via weakness 1360.

As mentioned above, package 1310 includes seal 1370, which is positioned between bottom edge 1315 and top edge 1335, and partially defines storage interior 1320 of surrounding wall 1313 and the interior of surrounding wall 1330. Seal 1370 is present on the interior of at least one of side panels 1312, 1314 and allows panels 1312, 1314 to be sealed together, preferably with a fluid-impermeable or hermetic seal. Seal 1370 may be a repeatably reclosable seal or a one-time seat, such as an adhesive seal or a mechanical seal. Additional details regarding seal 1370 are provided below.

Package 1310 includes a valve 1330, positioned in one of side panels 1312, 1314 to allow escape of air, gas or other fluid from storage interior 1320 to the exterior of package 1310; in FIG. 41, valve 1330 is illustrated in side panel 1312. Valve 1330 is preferably a one-way evacuation valve, allowing flow of fluid therethrough in only one direction; preferably, that direction is from storage interior 1320 of package 1310 to the exterior of package 1310. The fluid to pass through valve 1330 can be either or both gaseous or liquid. In most uses of package 1310, the fluid passing through valve 1330 will be air. Valve 1330 can be any suitable valve, such as those described above for valve 1230. Valve 1330 may be a manually activated valve or may be configured for use with an external device, such as the vacuum pump described above with reference to resealable storage device 10.

Located in close proximity to valve 1330 is a textured standoff material 1380. Standoff material 1380 can extend from zipper closure 1350, typically from one of zipper profiles 1354, 1352; in FIG. 41, standoff material 1380 extends from an end of zipper profile 1354, forming a skirt-like construction 1355. It is also foreseen that standoff material 1380 may be positioned on, or integral with, a side of zipper profiles 1354, 1352, (for example, positioned in an area close to where the zipper profile members are), rather than extending away from an end of the profile. Textured standoff material 1380 has at least one surface, preferably the one closest to valve 1330, that is textured, for example, with protrusions, dots, bumps, detents, grooves, etc., or other structures that provide a surface that is not smooth. Generally, the textured features of standoff material 1380 are at least 0.01 mm high, often at least 0.05 mm high, for example, about 0.1 mm high, or more, such as about 0.5 mm high or even 1 mm high. Such a textured standoff material 1380 is desirable in package constructions to maintain a slight air gap or spacing between zipper members 1354, 1352 and valve 1330, to inhibit valve 1330 being blocked by zipper profiles 1354, 1352 or by side panel 1314, so that air, gas or other fluid can pass through valve 1330.

Returning to package 1310, in detail, various specific details of package 1310 will now be described. It is understood however, that the following descriptions are not limiting to features of package 1310; alternate materials, elements, configurations, constructions, and the like, such as the configuration package 1210, could be used.

Package 1310 has side panels 1312 and 1314, which form the overall package 1310. Side panels 1312, 1314 are flexible sheets, typically polymeric film. Examples of suitable films for use as panels 1312, 1314 are well known, and include polyethylene, polypropylene, and the like. Laminated materials may also be used, which can include, but are not limited to, low density polyethylene (LDPE) and nylon or LDPE and polypropylene.

As provided above, side panels 1312, 1314 meet at bottom edge 1315, side edges 1316, 1318 and top edge 1335. Any or all of edges 1315, 1316, 1318, 1335 maybe seals or may be folds. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 41, bottom edge 1315 is a seal between side panel 1312 and side panel 1314 and top edge 1335 is a seal between side panel 1312 and side panel 1314. Side edges 1316, 1318 could be either seals or folds. For example, one piece of material could be folded to form panels 1312, 1314, thus forming one folded side edge and one sealed side edge. In an alternate configuration, a tube of material can be used, thus forming two folded side edges. Still further, package 1310 could have each of edges 1315, 1316, 1318, 1335 being sealed. These various edge configurations are known in the art and any of these are suitable for package 1310.

As provided above, zipper closure 1350 has first zipper profile 1354 and second zipper profile 1352, which engage and disengage from each other to provide access to storage interior 1320 of package 1310. Profiles 1354, 1352 are constructed to be repeatedly sealed (e.g., closed, engaged, mated, etc.) and unsealed (e.g., opened, disengaged, unmated, etc.), for example, by pressure exerted by the user's fingers. In some embodiments, zipper profiles 1354, 1352 are configured to provide an indication, for example by color change, when they are sealed. Although not illustrated in FIG. 40 or 41, zipper closure 1350 may be opened and closed by a slider element, as is well known. See for example U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,679,027; Des. 480,988; Des. 479,467, and 6,450,686, each of which is incorporated herein by reference, for examples of suitable slider elements.

As provided above, seal 1370 is present on the interior of at least one of panels 1312, 1314. Seal 1370 allows panels 1312, 1314 to be sealed together, preferably with a fluid-impermeable or hermetic seal. Seal 1370 preferably extends from side edge 1316 to side edge 1318, and may be any suitable width (taken in the direction from bottom edge 1315 to zipper closure 1350). Seal 1370 can be a material, e.g., adhesive, applied to a surface of panel(s) 1312, 1314 or seal 1370 may be integral with or formed by panel(s) 1312, 1314.

Seal 1370 may be a repeatably reclosable seal or a one-time seal, such as an adhesive seal or a mechanical seal that is not reclosable. For example, seal 1370 may be an adhesive peal seal, which can be sealed, readily opened, and resealed. Examples of peal seals include those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,290,393; 6,210,038, and 6,131,248, each of which is incorporated herein by reference. Seal 1370 may alternately be a non-resealable adhesive peal, that is, a seal that, once broken, cannot be resealed.

Still further, seal 1370 may be a mechanical connection between panels 1312, 1314 formed, for example, by a melting and joining of their materials, due to the application of heat and pressure in the area. Seal 1370 could alternately be a physical or mechanical interaction, such as a sealed farmed by material that separates or delaminates between layers, and cannot be resealed. Examples of non-resealable seals include those described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,004,032, which is incorporated herein by reference.

Package 1310 preferably includes textured standoff material 1380 in locations where it is desired to maintain a slight distance, gap or spacing, for example, such as against valve 1330. Textured standoff material 1380 is preferably present on any element of package 1310 that might inhibit flow through valve 1330. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 41, standoff material 1380 is connected to zipper profile 1354; standoff material 1380 could be integral with or sealed to zipper profile 1354. Textured standoff material 1380 could alternately be positioned in or on side panel 1314 or other portion of package 1310 that might inhibit flow through valve 1330.

Textured standoff material 1380 may extend the width of package 1310 from side edges 1316, 1318, as illustrated in FIG. 40, or may stop short of edges 1316, 1318. Textured standoff material 1380 could be present only in the area proximate to valve 1330.

The Figures illustrate unopened package 1310 retaining food item 1390 therein. Package 1310, as illustrated, is unopened, because header 1335 remains intact.

Package 1310, with food item 1390 therein, is produced by processes often referred to as ‘form fill and seal’. In these processes, the package, particularly storage interior 1320, is manufactured (e.g., formed), the item is placed within storage interior 1320 (e.g., filled), and then any last seals, such as bottom edge 1315, are made (e.g., sealed). “Form fill and seal” will be referred to as “FFS” hereinafter. Package 1310 may be made by a horizontal FFS process (e.g., where the film forming side panels 1312, 1314 and zipper closure 1350 move in a generally horizontal direction) or a vertical FFS process (e.g., where the film forming side panels 1312, 1314 and zipper closure 1350 move in a generally vertical direction). Typically, with horizontal FFS processes, the unfilled package 1310 progresses through the process up-side-down. That is, bottom edge 1315 is positioned above top edge 1335. With vertical FFS process, the unfilled package progresses either up-side-down or sideways.

In one embodiment of a horizontal FFS process, two extended lengths of the film, each forming a side panel 1312, 314, move in a generally horizontal direction. An extended length of zipper closure 1350 may be attached to side panels 1312, 1314, before, after, or concurrently with the film being sealed together to form top edge 1335. Standoff material 1380 can be attached to zipper closure 1350 prior to zipper closure 1350 being attached to side panels 1312, 1314. Valve 1330 will typically be installed into one of the extended lengths of film at predetermined intervals, to correspond to one valve 1330 per package 1310. Seal 1370 can be formed between side panels 1312, 1314 before, after, or concurrently with edge 1335 being farmed or with zipper closure 1350 being attached. Weakness 1360 may be formed close to edge 1335 either after edge 1335 has been sealed or before.

After the various elements have been joined to form an extended length, seals, which will result in side edges 1316, 1318, are made. Crush areas 1410 are usually made simultaneously with these side edge seals, but could be made in a separate step. After storage interior 1320 has been made (i.e., between side panels 1312, 1314 having side edges 1316, 1318, seal 1370), food item 1390 is placed, for example, dropped, into storage interior 1320, and then bottom edge 1315, which is positioned above the rest of package 1310, is sealed.

In an alternate embodiment of a horizontal FFS process, one extended length of film moves in a generally horizontal direction. This film is folded to form both panels 1312, 1314 with folded edge 1335 therebetween. Any order of applying zipper closure 1350, standoff material 1380, valve 1330, seal 1370 and weakness 1360 can be used. Similar to the first embodiment, after the various elements have been joined to form an extended length, side edges 1316, 1318 and crush areas 1410 are made. Food item 1390 is placed into storage interior 1320, and then bottom edge 1315 is sealed.

In one embodiment of a vertical FFS process, two extended lengths of film, each forming a side panel 1312, 314, move in a generally vertically downward direction. Similar to above, an extended length of zipper closure 1350 may be attached to side panels 1312, 1314, before, after, or concurrently with the film being sealed together to form top edge 1335. Standoff material 1380 can be attached to zipper closure 1350 prior to zipper closure 1350 being attached to side panels 1312, 1314. Valve 1330 will typically be installed into one of the extended lengths of film at predetermined intervals, to correspond to one valve 1330 per package 31.0. Seal 1370 can be formed between side panels 1312, 1314 before, after, or concurrently with edge 1335 being formed or with zipper closure 1350 being attached. Weakness 1360 may be formed close to edge 1335 either after edge 1335 has been sealed or before. Bottom seal 1315 can also be formed at any stage in this process.

After the various elements have been joined to firm an extended length, a seal, which results in, for example, side edge 1318 and a crush area 1410, is made. After this step, storage interior 1320 has been made between side panels 1312, 1314, edge 1315, seal 1370 and side edge 1318; see FIG. 41, which is representative of a top view of the package during such as vertical FFS process. Food item 1390 is placed, for example, dropped, into storage interior 1320, and then side edge 1316, which is positioned above the rest of package 1310, is scaled. Such a FFS process moves in a generally downward vertical direction.

In an alternate embodiment of a vertical FFS process, one extended length of film moves in a generally horizontal direction. This film is folded to form both panels 1312, 1314 with folded edge 1335 or edge 1315 therebetween. Any order of applying zipper closure 1350, standoff material 1380, valve 1330, seal 1370 and weakness 1360 can be used. Similar to the first embodiment, after the various elements have been joined to form an extended length, side edge 1318 and crush areas 1410 are made. Food item 1390 is placed into storage interior 1320, and then side edge 1316 is sealed. Alternately, a tube of film could be used, thus resulting in two folded edges 1315 and 1335.

Prior to use, the consumer removes header 1336 via weakness 1360. To gain access to storage interior 1320, zipper profiles 1354, 1352 are separated and seal 1370 is breached, which allows access to item 1390.

To close package 1310, it is preferred to remove air from interior 1320, for example by flattening package 1310 prior to mating zipper profiles 1354, 1352. After zipper closure 1350 is closed, additional air can be removed from interior 1320 via valve 1330. The air may be manually forced through valve 1330, for example, by hand pressure or other squeezing applied to the region between edge 1315 and zipper closure 1350, or may be attached to an external device, such as a vacuum pump. After removal of the desired air, gas or fluid, seal 1370 may be resealed, if so configured. Removal of air, gas or fluid from interior 1320 decreases the opportunity for spoilage of food item 1390 and extends its life. When seal 1370 is resealed, it provides an air-tight seal across package 1310. Zipper closure 1350 is also sealed, providing a seal across package 1310.

As mentioned above, any or all of edges 1315, 1316, 1318, 1335 may be folds or seals between side panels 1312, 1314. A slider device (if present) may be applied to zipper profiles 1354, 1352 before or after incorporation with side panels 1312, 1314.

Package 1310 may include side gussets or gussets in panels 1312, 1314 to provide increased volume for interior 1320. Various other configurations and methods of making package 1310 are suitable.

For example, and with reference to FIG. 44, the storage device 10 may be a standup-type bag having legs 105, 106 interconnected to lateral sides 15, and a bottom 107. The configuration of the legs 105, 106 and bottom panel 107 facilitate propping of the storage device 10 in an upright condition, such as during evacuation of the storage device 10. Methods of producing such standup-type bags are discussed in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,954,124, which is incorporated herein by reference.

One embodiment of a storage device 10 propped in an upright condition via legs 105, 106 and bottom panel 107 is illustrated in FIG. 45. Wells 108, 109 are defined in part by legs 105, 106 and bottom panel 107. In the illustrated embodiment, a pump 40 is interconnected with the vacuum valve 30, to facilitate evacuation of gases from the storage space 22 of the storage device 10. In this regard, the pump 40 includes a bracket 115 for interconnection with the upper portion of the storage device 10. The bracket 115 includes a plurality of members adapted to facilitate interconnection of the pump 40 with the storage device 10 without removing the storage device 10 from its upright condition (e.g., facilitate removal of gases from the storage device 10 while maintaining the storage device in an upright position). More particularly, the bracket 115 may be adapted to slide over an upper portion of the storage device 10 so that when the pump 40 is pressed against the second panel 19 containing the vacuum valve 30, a restraining member 113 of the bracket restrains the first panel 17 and/or second panel 19 from movement from its upright position. In this regard, the bracket 115 may include, and restraining member 113 may be interconnected with, a spring (not illustrated) or other resilient means adapted to force restraining member 113 toward panel 17.

The standup-type storage container 10 may include additional features. For example, the container may include a wicking material 93 within wells 108, 109, such as any of the wicking materials described above. In another embodiment, one or more of the wells 108, 109 may include a resilient span (not illustrated) disposed therein so as to facilitate resiliency in the bottom portion of the storage device 10. For example, the resilient span may comprise a rigid material interconnected with one or more of the wells 108, 109 and extending the length of such wells 108, 109. The resilient span may extend between the lateral sides 15 of the storage device 10, or between any portion thereof.

Many of the above-described features can be combined in various orientations/configurations. For example, the storage device 10 may include various combinations/orientations of resealable closures 20, vacuum valves 30, stand-off structure 70, and gussets, to name a few. In one embodiment, and with reference to FIG. 46, a storage device 10 may include a resealable closure 20 proximal the opening of storage device 10. The storage device 10 may further include gussets 116 within the sides of such storage container 10. A bottom panel 117 may be interconnected with gusset portions 116. The valve 30 and stand-off structure 70 may be oriented proximal the bottom panel 117, as illustrated in FIG. 46, or may be proximal the resealable closure 20, as described above, or any portion therebetween. Many other combinations of the features of the storage device 10 may be utilized, and all such combinations are expressly contemplated herein.

As described above, the vacuum valve 30 may be located on a panel of the storage device 10 and in fluid communication with the storage space 22. In other embodiments, the vacuum valve 30 may be in fluid communication with the storage space 22 of the storage device 10, but may be absent from either one of the side panels 17, 19, of the storage device 10. For example, the vacuum valve 30 may be fluidly interconnected to the storage space 22 via a channel located on a side portion of the storage device 10. One embodiment of such a configuration is illustrated in FIGS. 47-49 c. In the illustrated embodiment, the vacuum valve 30 is interconnected to the storage device 10 via extension 185 interconnected with a lateral side 15 of the storage device 10. With particular reference to FIG. 48 and FIGS. 49 a-49 c, the vacuum valve 30 may be fluidly interconnected with the storage space 22 of the storage device 10 via a channel 189 at least partially contained within the extension 185. In the illustrated embodiment, channel 189 is defined by a manifold 187 and an internal space of extension 185. Channel 189 extends from, at least, the vacuum valve 30 to an opening into storage space 22. Manifold 187 may be, for example, a rigid member, such as a high density plastic. Internal walls of the extension 185 may include a plurality of polyhedron structures 110, such as described above, to facilitate removal of gasses from the storage space 22 of the storage device 10. Thus, when pump 40 is utilized in conjunction with vacuum valve 30, gases within storage space 22 may be evacuated therefrom via channel 189 and/or manifold 187. While channel 189 has been described as being at least partially defined by manifold 187, in other embodiments manifold 187 may be omitted.

Extension 185 may be a rigid material, such as a high density plastic. In other embodiments, and with reference to FIG. 50, extension 185 may comprise a flexible material, such as LDPE. In this embodiment, extension 185 may be folded over onto the body of storage device 10, such as during shipment and/or storage.

Channel 189 may extend substantially linearly into storage device 10 as illustrated in FIGS. 47-49 c. In other embodiments, channel 189 may comprise a tortuous path through a lateral side 15 of the storage device 10. For example, and with reference to FIG. 51, channel 189 may comprise at least one turn therein. In this regard, the vacuum valve 30 and corresponding extension 185 may be located on a side portion and/or upper portion of the storage device 10, as illustrated in FIG. 51.

In other embodiments, channel 189 may be produced via a reconnectable physical connector of the extension 185. For example, extension 185 may have a needle interconnected therewith, and channel 189 may be at least partially defined by the needle. The needle may be adapted to penetrate a side portion of the storage device 10 to facilitate removal of gases therefrom. In a particular embodiment, and with reference to FIG. 52, extension 185 may be interconnected with a needle 191, the needle 191 having a distal width W sufficient to facilitate removal of fluids from storage space 22 of the storage device 10. The width W may also be small enough such that when needle 191 is removed from a lateral side 15 of the storage device 10, the material of lateral side 15 reforms, thereby sealing storage space 22 from exterior fluids. In another embodiment, a one-way O-ring valve (not illustrated) may be located in a lateral side 15 of the storage device 10 so as to facilitate insertion and removal of pin 191. In this regard, when needle 191 is inserted into the O-ring, fluid communication between vacuum valve 30 and storage space 22 is effected.

While illustrative embodiments of the invention are disclosed herein, it will be appreciated that numerous modifications and other embodiments may be devised by those skilled in the art. Therefore, it will be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and embodiments that come within the spirit and scope of the present invention. 

1. An evacuable package comprising: at least one polymeric sheet sealed along a portion of its periphery, thereby defining an evacuable package comprising an opening and an interior space; a vacuum valve disposed on a first panel of the evacuable package, the vacuum valve being in fluid communication with the interior space and defining a sealable passage through which fluids may be drawn; and a docking ring comprising an outer surface, an inner surface, an upper surface and a lower surface, wherein the lower surface is attached to the first panel of the evacuable package, and wherein the inner surface circumscribes the vacuum valve, thereby defining a passageway communicable with the vacuum valve and an engagement end of a pump.
 2. The evacuable package of claim 1, wherein the passageway is aligned relative to the vacuum valve so as to align the engagement end of the pump with the vacuum valve when the engagement end of the vacuum valve is interconnected with the docking ring.
 3. The evacuable package of claim 1, wherein the docking ring comprises a first complementary aligning feature for receiving a second complementary aligning feature of the pump, wherein the first complementary feature restricts receipt of the engagement end of the pump into the receiving cavity unless the second complementary feature is aligned therewith.
 4. The evacuable package of claim 3, wherein the first complementary aligning feature is one of a male member and a female member, and wherein the second complementary feature is the other of the male member and the female member.
 5. The evacuable package of claim 4, wherein the first complementary feature is disposed on at least one of the outer surface and the upper surface of the docking ring.
 6. The evacuable package of claim 1, wherein the docking ring comprises at least one thread adapted to receive and restrictively engage an engagement feature of the pump.
 7. The evacuable package of claim 6, wherein the at least one thread is disposed on the inner surface of the docking ring.
 8. The evacuable package of claim 6, wherein the at least one thread is disposed on the outer surface of the docking ring.
 9. The evacuable package of claim 6, wherein the at least one thread comprises a downward taper.
 10. The evacuable package of claim 1, further comprising: at least one rib attached to the first panel of the evacuable package, wherein the at least one rib is disposed within the passageway of the docking ring and extends towards the upper surface of the docking ring.
 11. The evacuable package of claim 10, wherein the at least one rib is positioned with the passageway so as to physically engage a portion of the engagement end of the pump when the engagement end of the pump is interconnected with the docking ring.
 12. The evacuable package of claim 10, wherein when the engagement end of the pump is in interconnected with the docking ring, a portion of the engagement end of the pump physically engages the ribs, wherein the ribs are pushed toward a second panel of the evacuable package, thereby defining a space between the vacuum valve and the second panel of the evacuable package.
 13. The evacuable package of claim 1, further comprising: a standoff structure coupled to one of the first panel and a second panel of the evacuable package, the standoff structure comprising a plurality of raised geometric surfaces defining channels for passage of fluids from the interior space of the evacuable package to the vacuum valve, wherein the channels face the interior surface of the first panel of the evacuable package.
 14. The evacuable package of claim 13, further comprising: a resealable closure attached to the opening of the evacuable package, the resealable closure comprising at least one set of interengaging profiles.
 15. The evacuable package of claim 14, further comprising: a caulking composition placed proximal to the interengaging profiles of the resealable closure.
 16. The evacuable package of claim 14, wherein the caulking composition is placed on at least a first one of the interengaging profiles of the resealable closure.
 17. The evacuable package of claim 16, further comprising a sealant stripe on the interior of at least one side panel of the evacuable package.
 18. The evacuable package of claim, 17, wherein the sealant stripe is a peal seal. 